Applications for the 2027 cohort of Approach Social Work open on 28 September 2026. Register your interest now and we’ll let you know as soon as applications open, so you don’t miss your opportunity to apply.
Shape the future of children’s social work
The future of children’s social work will be shaped by people like you.
It’s a time of real change in children’s social work, and the profession needs people who are curious, creative and committed to improving outcomes for children.
Through Approach Social Work, you’ll build the knowledge and skills to help shape the future of children’s services while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
You don’t need any previous social work knowledge or experience to join us. We’re looking for people who are motivated to make a difference and ready to commit to three years of learning, working and growing.
Why Approach Social Work?
Approach Social Work is a fully funded three-year training programme that helps graduates become children’s social workers.
From day one, you’ll combine practical experience working with children and families with academic study, building the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in a rewarding career.
Here’s what you can expect:
A fully funded master’s degree in children’s social work – worth £9,000, with no tuition fees to pay
- Practical experience working directly with children and families from the start
- An £18,000–£20,000 tax-free bursary in year one to help with living and travel costs
- A guaranteed role as a newly qualified children’s social worker when you successfully complete year one
- A salary of £30,000–£39,000 in year two, with salaries up to £44,000 in year three
- Ongoing support, networking and professional development through the Frontline Fellowship
Locations available
Places are available in selected locations across England, including:
- North East
- Yorkshire and the Humber
- North West
- East Midlands
- London
- South East and East England
- South West
What do I need?
To apply for Approach Social Work, you’ll need to:
- Have or be predicted to achieve at least a 2.2 in an undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent)
- Have GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above, or an approved equivalent qualification
- Have the right to work and study in the UK, including access to public funds, for the duration of the programme
- Be resident in England by the time the programme begins
- Not be a qualified social worker
We welcome graduates from any degree background, except social work.
Previous experience working with children or young people can be helpful, but it isn’t essential. What matters most is your motivation to make a difference and your ability to demonstrate qualities including empathy, resilience, self-awareness and strong judgement.
What’s the application process?
- Register your interest: This is not an assessed stage and only takes a few minutes to complete.
- Applications open on 28 September 2026: You’ll complete an application to join the 2027 cohort of Approach Social Work.
- Online assessment and selection process: You’ll have the opportunity to demonstrate your motivations, strengths and suitability for the programme.
- Assessment centre: If successful, you’ll progress to the next stage of the selection process.
Ready to take the first step?
Register your interest now and be among the first to hear when applications open.
Please note: Places are available in selected locations and applications will close as locations reach capacity. We recommend registering your interest and applying early so you don’t miss out.
Contact Details:
Graduate Recruitment Bureau - GRB Recruitment Team
