Student placements
We work with universities to support different routes to becoming a social worker. Surrey Children’s Services run a degree apprenticeship scheme for internal staff. We also offer first and final placements to external university students.
If you are on your final placement with us, we will invite you to a recruitment information session. This will explain our Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme. It will also give tips for your Newly Qualified Social Worker application. We hope you will apply to join our children’s workforce when you qualify.
Student placement programme
Our programme helps you gain valuable experience with children, young people and families. During your placement, we aim to give you the support and guidance you need to learn, adapt and develop. By the end of the 70-day or 100-day placement we hope you will meet the requirements of the Professional Capabilities Framework so that you can progress to the next stage.
Arrangements
We will work with your university to find a suitable match in Surrey Children’s Services. Teams cover a range of support from early help to targeted or intensive support and statutory interventions.
Students cannot arrange their own placement in Surrey Children’s Services.
Because our services cover a large area, all students must hold a valid UK driving licence and have access to a car.
Assessment
You will be assessed by a qualified or trainee Practice Educator (PE). With guidance, you will produce evidence of your learning. Your PE will complete a holistic assessment using the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF). For final placements, they will also consider the Post Qualifying Standards in Child and Family Social Work. These are known as Knowledge and Skills Statements for child and family practitioners.
Practice Educators (PE)
Our Practice Educators are committed to helping you learn and grow.
They will:
- Support you to link theory to practice.
- Support you to understand legislation, policies and procedures.
- Encourage you to reflect on your work.
- Consider the emotional impact of your work.
- Identify strengths and areas for development.
Your PE may be onsite in your team, offsite in another team, or working independently. If you have an offsite PE, you will also have an Onsite Supervisor (OSS) to make sure your placement is joined up. Some PEs may be Surrey staff completing their Practice Educator qualification. They will be supported by an experienced Practice Assessor.
Your Practice Educator, Onsite Supervisor and university tutor will work with you. They will give regular feedback to support your progress.
Supervision
All students receive weekly supervision from a qualified social worker. If you have an offsite PE and an OSS, supervision will alternate between them. Your PE will focus on teaching and learning. Your OSS will guide day-to-day work and decisions.
Additional support for student social workers
Monthly Support groups
Offsite Practice Educators run a monthly student group. This provides a reflective space for learning and support across the county. Attendance is expected and will help you gather evidence for your portfolio.
Student SharePoint
We have a dedicated SharePoint page for social work students on placement. We welcome ideas from students to develop this resource further.
Online learning platforms
You will have access to the learning platforms:
- Care Knowledge
- Community Care Inform
These platforms offer publications, podcasts, webinars, blogs and policy updates. This will support your learning and provide evidence for your portfolio.