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- Tasks: Train as a Social Worker while gaining hands-on experience in the community.
- Company: Join Plymouth City Council, a supportive and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary while studying, with all fees covered.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and maths, and a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities upon qualification.
The predicted salary is between 33699 - 33699 ÂŁ per year.
Plymouth City Council (PCC) are pleased to offer an exciting opportunity to train as a Social Worker, commencing in September 2026. Through our partnership with the Open University, we offer a sponsored three‑year social work degree apprenticeship, which combines work and study. On successful qualification, applicants will be able to register for the protected title of “Social Worker” and will be eligible to apply for employment with Plymouth City Council’s Children, Young People and Families Service.
Entry Requirements
- Have GCSE grade 9–4/A*–C/Functional/Key Skills Level 2 in English and maths, or a certified equivalent.
- Have the right to live and work in England.
- Demonstrate the potential to study at undergraduate level.
- Agree to an enhanced DBS with lists check (checks against all registers including both children and vulnerable adults). This will be separately undertaken by the Open University.
- Complete a health check administered by both Plymouth City Council and the Open University. If, in exceptional circumstances, there are serious doubts about your fitness to practice on health grounds, you may be asked to undergo a medical examination. This examination could be at your own expense.
- Be ready to pursue a full‑time course that will predominantly run Monday to Friday 9‑5pm.
Pay and Benefits
Plymouth City Council will employ successful appointees as a full‑time Trainee Social Worker from August 2026. Salary: Grade F, £33,699 per annum. Successful appointees who are already employed by Plymouth City Council on Grade F will maintain their current salary. Plymouth City Council will sponsor the appointee for the duration of their social work apprenticeship and will pay all Open University fees for the BA (Hons) Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship. On completion of the apprenticeship, the appointee will be able to apply for a position as a Newly Qualified Social Worker (Grade G £37,280.00) on Plymouth’s nationally leading Early Career Framework.
Applications
Applications should be submitted via the Plymouth City Council recruitment page. The role is open to internal and external applicants. The application deadline is 27th April 2026.
Plymouth City Council is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, care experience, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion/belief, sex or sexual orientation. As part of our commitment to promoting equality we offer guaranteed interviews to those who meet the essential criteria and are considered disabled, care experienced or are an Armed Forces Service Leaver within the last two years. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.
Trainee Social Worker (CYP&F) x 2 in Plymouth employer: PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
Contact Detail:
PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Social Worker (CYP&F) x 2 in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Plymouth City Council and their values. Research their work with Children, Young People and Families, and think about how your own experiences align with their mission. This will help you stand out in interviews!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current social workers or trainees on LinkedIn, join relevant groups, and attend local events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions and scenarios related to social work. Think about your approach to challenges and how you’d support children and families. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in your journey to becoming a social worker.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Social Worker (CYP&F) x 2 in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what the role entails and how your skills align with it.
Showcase Your Passion for Social Work: In your written application, let us know why you're passionate about becoming a social worker. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field, especially with children and young people.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love seeing personalised applications that reflect your understanding of our values and the specific requirements of the Trainee Social Worker role. Make it unique!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application via the Plymouth City Council recruitment page. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Trainee Social Worker and the specific responsibilities involved. Familiarise yourself with Plymouth City Council’s values and the Children, Young People and Families Service. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Think about your experiences that demonstrate your ability to work with children and families. Prepare examples that highlight your communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, support available during your apprenticeship, or the team dynamics within the service. It shows you're engaged and serious about the opportunity.
✨Be Yourself
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember to be authentic. Let your personality shine through and express your passion for social work. The interviewers want to see who you are as a person, so don’t hesitate to share your motivations and aspirations in this field.