Qualification programmes
There are 2 main routes to becoming a social worker with the partnership.
These are:
Step up to social work
Step up to social work is a 14-month, full-time programme, and is for those who want to become a social worker, but do not hold a degree in social work.
The Kent and Medway Regional Partnership is recruiting 20 aspiring social workers to start this programme in January 2026.
Students can expect to learn through a combination of academic study and real social work experience in either Kent or Medway.
On completion, the Postgraduate Diploma will enable graduates to register and practice as a social worker, making a difference by nurturing relationships with families during difficult times and by protecting children.
The application deadline has been extended for a further week, closing on Tuesday 1 April 2025 at 12pm.
Apply for the step up to social work programme on GOV.UK.
Degree level entry
There are 2 options available for entry at degree level. This can depend on your background.
All of the programmes require you to attend practice placements which allow you to develop your practice, research skills and apply your knowledge.
Bachelor of Arts - BA (Hons)
Completing this degree helps you to develop the knowledge and practical skills you need to become a confident and skilled social work practitioner.
Master of Arts - MA
This qualification is designed as a route into professional practice for graduates in other undergraduate subjects.
Local universities offering social work degrees
The University of Kent (UoK) and Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) each offer a 3 year BA (Hons) and a 2 year MA course in Social Work.
They are both Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) approved degrees which qualify and prepare you to be a social worker.
Placements
On a BA or MA degree programme, students will be offered placement opportunities with either Medway Council, Kent County Council or other local social care providers.
You will have the following support on your placement:
- a qualified social worker who is also a practice educator
- in some cases, an on-site supervisor
- a placement tutor provided by the university
- a personal tutor.
Placements last:
- 70 days in year 2, and 100 days in year 3 for the BA (Hons) degree
- 70 days in year 1, and 100 days in year 2 for the MA degree.
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