COURSE CURRICULUM

This social work course offers a structured, progressive curriculum designed to prepare students for professional qualification and practice across diverse settings. In the first year, students develop a foundational understanding of the profession. The Personal and Professional Development module supports the transition to university study while focusing on communication and readiness for practice. Social Work and the Life Course and Understanding Social Work explore the historical and theoretical roots of the profession, examining values and roles in contemporary contexts. Understanding Law in Social Work introduces essential legislation, including the Human Rights Act, and discusses the relationship between law and practice. Working with Diversity addresses issues of inequality, oppression, and discrimination, encouraging students to explore inclusive and anti-oppressive approaches to social work.The second year deepens knowledge and introduces practice-based learning. Contemporary Challenges for Social Work Practice explores current thematic issues facing the profession. Social Work with Adults and Social Work with Children and Young People focus on the legal, ethical, and policy frameworks governing practice with vulnerable groups, including safeguarding responsibilities. The Models of Intervention module equips students with evidence-based methods and theoretical approaches, giving them opportunities to apply these in various contexts. Practice Placement 1 provides a 70-day supervised placement in a local care setting, allowing students to build confidence and experience in lower-complexity cases.In the final year, students refine their critical and practical skills. Social Work Law for Qualifying Practice focuses on complex legal and ethical issues relating to mental health, capacity, and safeguarding. Social Work in the Global Context explores how global issues like migration and human trafficking impact local practice. Critical Thinking for Social Work fosters reflective practice, decision-making, and professional identity development. Practice Placement 2, a 100-day placement in a statutory agency, challenges students to apply their learning to more complex scenarios, preparing them for qualified practice upon graduation.