Post Qualifying Year 2 (PQ2)
We know that moving on from your Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE), brings new learning and development needs. In 2022 to 2023 we tested a small programme. From this, we created our PQ2 offer and launched it in January 2024. Our offer continues to evolve based on feedback.
Aims of the programme
- Support social workers in their early careers with dedicated help after ASYE into PQ2.
- Help staff move from ASYE into their second year of practice as work becomes greater in volume and complexity.
- Make sure all social workers in PQ2 in Children’s Services get equal access to support.
- Give line managers clear guidance on their role in supporting PQ2 development.
- Prepare for future changes. The Department for Education plans to extend support for new social workers to two years by 2027.
- Improve staff retention and reduce turnover.
PQ2 programme offer
- One day per month of protected development time.
- Monthly group meetings supported by an ASYE assessor.
- Access to Action Learning Sets.
- Buddy Down opportunities with Newly Qualified Social Workers completing their ASYE.
- Buddy Up opportunities for one-to-one support on new tasks.
- Continued access to academy support.
Extra development
- A six-month reunion and career development event.
- Time to reflect and plan career progression.
- Explore routes to senior social worker and practice educator roles.
- Identify actions for ongoing professional development.