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
✨Tap Into Local Support Groups
Get involved with local community support groups or charities related to social work. These places are often hubs for networking and can lead to trainee opportunities at organisations like BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL. Plus, volunteering can give you hands-on experience that makes your application pop!
✨Connect with University Career Services
If you’re still studying, use your university's career services to find trainee roles in social work. They often have partnerships with organisations and can help set up interviews at places like BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL. Don’t underestimate those dedicated programmes; they’re made for people like us!
✨Attend Social Work Events
Keep an eye out for workshops, conferences, or networking events in the social work field. These can be fantastic for meeting professionals from organisations like BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL and getting insights on what they look for in trainees.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Build a portfolio or a blog where you share your thoughts on social work issues. This not only showcases your passion but also makes you more visible to companies like BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL looking for trainees who genuinely care about the field. We can all make a difference, so let your enthusiasm shine!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Work Trainee (Fixed Term) in Bridgend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for helping others shine through. Talk about experiences that sparked your interest in social work, whether that’s volunteer work, personal experiences, or relevant coursework. We're looking for trainees who genuinely care – that passion is what makes a difference!
Highlight Relevant Experiences:Even if you haven’t worked in social work before, think about transferable skills from other roles or volunteering. Mention things like teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving. Include specific examples that demonstrate your abilities and how they relate to the social work field.
Tailor Your CV for Social Work:When it comes to your CV, make sure to include any relevant qualifications or certifications, like first aid or mental health first responder training. Also, focus on any academic achievements related to social work, such as modules you've taken or projects you’ve completed that showcase your skills in the field.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Learning Goals:As a trainee, it’s important to emphasise your eagerness to learn and grow. Be prepared to mention what you hope to gain from the experience at BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but a chance to develop your skills and make a real impact in social work.
How to prepare for a job interview at BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL
✨Know Your Theories
Brush up on key social work theories and frameworks, especially those relevant to the specific role at BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL. Be ready to demonstrate your understanding of models like the ecological systems theory or strengths-based approaches, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Emphasise Your Empathy
As a trainee in social work, you'll need to showcase your interpersonal skills. Prepare to share examples where you've demonstrated empathy and understanding in challenging situations, whether in prior experiences or your studies.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect the interviewers to put you through situational questions that test your problem-solving and crisis management skills. Practice responding to hypothetical scenarios you might face as a social worker, focusing on how you would assess and intervene in those situations.
✨Showcase Your Motivation for Learning
As a trainee, it’s vital to express your eagerness to learn and grow in your role at BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL. Be prepared to discuss what specific skills you hope to develop during the traineeship and how your passion for social work drives your career aspirations.
