At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals and families while gaining hands-on experience in social work.
- Company: Bridgend County Borough Council, dedicated to community well-being.
- Benefits: Full salary during training, hybrid working, and a pathway to a permanent role.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while earning a Social Work Diploma.
- Qualifications: 2:2 Honours degree or equivalent, plus relevant social care experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Bridgend County Borough Council is opening its social work trainee programme for academic entry 2026. The role is a 37‑hour per week, fixed‑term position up to August 2028 that combines work‑based learning with the completion of a Social Work Postgraduate Diploma at Cardiff University. Upon successful completion of the programme you will be appointed to a full social work position, with an expectation to remain with the Authority for two years.
Responsibilities
- Work with children, adults and their carers to focus on what matters to them and promote their well‑being.
- Collaborate effectively with social workers, professionals and other relevant stakeholders to assess an individual’s needs, capacity, resources and desired outcomes.
- Participate in a structured programme of learning and support from supervising social workers.
- Contribute to the council’s core mandate of protecting children, young people and adults at risk.
Qualifications
- Hold a recognised 2:2 Honours degree in any subject, or an equivalent international degree.
- Provide evidence of Welsh or English language proficiency (e.g., an undergraduate degree studied in the UK).
- Demonstrate relevant social care experience from the last five years in a personal, voluntary or paid role.
- Undergo an Enhanced Children and Adults Barred List criminal records check via the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS).
- Hold a valid driving licence.
Additional Information
- Full salary will be paid while undertaking the Cardiff University course.
- The hybrid working policy applies, allowing you to split working hours between home and the council office.
- The application process includes submission of the BCBC application form online and, if shortlisted, participation in interviews with Cardiff University programme staff at their campus.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the BCBC application before the closing date.
- Applicants should also prepare a copy of their degree certificate and English or Welsh language certification to be emailed to scwdp@bridgend.gov.uk by the closing date.
- For any queries, contact scwdp@bridgend.gov.uk.
Closing Date: 22 April 2026
Shortlisting Date: 27 April 2026
Social Work Trainee (Fixed Term) in Bridgend employer: BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Bridgend County Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring social workers to gain practical experience while pursuing a Social Work Postgraduate Diploma at Cardiff University. With a strong commitment to employee development, a supportive work culture, and the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements, we empower our trainees to make a meaningful impact in the community while ensuring their professional growth and well-being.
Contact Details:
BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Work Trainee (Fixed Term) in Bridgend
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current social workers or trainees in your area. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like and might even help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common questions for social work roles and practice your answers. We want you to shine, so think about how your experiences relate to the role and be ready to share them.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for social work! During interviews, let your enthusiasm for helping others come through. Share stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in people’s lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so take advantage of our resources!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Work Trainee (Fixed Term) in Bridgend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Role:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what the Social Work Trainee role is all about. Dive into the job description and think about how your experiences align with the responsibilities. This will help you tailor your application to show us why you're the perfect fit!
Show Off Your Qualifications:Make sure to highlight your 2:2 Honours degree and any relevant social care experience you've got. We want to see how your background makes you a strong candidate for this programme, so don’t hold back on sharing those details!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of what you want to say. Remember, less is often more!
Submit Everything on Time:Don’t forget to send in your BCBC application before the deadline! Also, prepare your degree certificate and language certification to email to us by the closing date. Staying organised will make the process smoother for both you and us!
How to prepare for a job interview at BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a social work trainee and the responsibilities that come with it. Brush up on key concepts in social work, especially those related to working with children and vulnerable adults. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant social care experience, whether it's from paid work, volunteering, or personal situations. Think of specific examples where you've made a positive impact, as this will help demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the programme, the council's approach to social work, or the support you'll receive during your training. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is right for you.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Be honest about your motivations for pursuing a career in social work and how you align with the council's values. Let your passion shine through, and don’t be afraid to share your personal journey.