Social Work in England and Scotland 2015/2016

Transcription

1 1 Social Work in England and Scotland 2015/2016

2 Self-belief that s what the OU gives you. KERRY PACE, OU GRADUATE

3 1 Life-changing Learning Everything you need to know to start your journey with The Open University (OU) is right here. The launch of the OU changed the landscape of higher education forever. The principle we re founded on that the very highest standard of education should be accessible by the many, not the few still drives everything we do. It s why we re experts in part-time study and why more adults choose the OU than any other university We re experts in flexible, part-time study No-one understands how to help students succeed and make knowledge stick better than us we re the leading expert in flexible higher education. To do what we do successfully, year after year, requires exceptional technology, methods and staff. The way we work, works not least because it s flexible enough to work around you and your life. We re one of the world s finest universities Everything we do is grounded in the research we re internationally famous for OU research changes the world. It s this combination of world-class teaching and research that makes our qualifications so highly respected and our study materials so sought after. We re more local than you think Many people are surprised to learn that there are 400 study locations right across the UK. We also have around 1100 local events each year, so why not come and talk to us? You can find your nearest event at We re just a phone call away Students get excellent study assistance from our Student Support Teams specialist teams dedicated to helping students successfully complete their modules. Once you are registered as a student, you will have access to these specialist teams. If you d like to find out more, contact our Student Recruitment Team on Students love us It s great to know we re doing things right in the eyes of the people that matter most our students. That s why we re proud that we have achieved over 90 per cent for student satisfaction year in, year out, in the National Student Survey. We think it s a reflection of the unique study experience that we offer. Contents Social work qualifications 2 Social work England 3 BA (Hons) Social Work (England) (Q32) 3 Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (England) (T02) Social work Scotland 12 BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) (Q41) 12 BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) Graduate entry route (Q50) Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (T03) Diploma of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (W31) Social work modules 21 Northern Ireland In Northern Ireland the honours degree in Social Work (England) (Q32) is offered. Students resident in Northern Ireland undertake the same curriculum as students in England but are registered with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC). If you are an employer or potential student and would like to find out more, please contact The Open University in Northern Ireland on There s more online To find out more about a qualification that interests you and how to register, enter the qualification code in the search box at

4 2 Social work qualifications The Open University is one of the largest providers of social work training in the UK. At any time around one thousand students are studying with us. Our flexible study arrangements fit in with your work and home life, so you can carry on earning while you learn. Our curriculum is developed by leading academics and professionals who are actively engaged in social work, ensuring that teaching reflects current priorities. Service users and carers take an active role and their voices are heard throughout our learning materials challenging and enriching the contributions of practitioners and policy makers alike. With our employer partners we offer a different route into the profession. It s one that opens up a host of opportunities to people who, for one reason or another, require a more flexible and individualised approach to social work training. Students receive extensive support from programme tutors and practice educators who are committed to developing professional social workers, and from University subject tutors who will support and guide them through the individual modules that make up the degree. Students will have access to module websites which, as well as providing a wealth of teaching and resource materials that exploit multimedia technologies, will link them to their tutor and fellow students. Reflective and practice skills are developed in regular face-to-face workshops. We re committed to providing high-quality preparation for the challenging, demanding, yet immensely rewarding experience of becoming a social worker. We hope that you share our enthusiasm and will take the opportunity to join the hundreds of employers and students who are already enjoying the benefits of the OU social work programme. This prospectus gives details of the programme, the entry requirements and the registration process. The qualification descriptions in this prospectus list the modules that are currently available for study. However, as we review our curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time. Key c o Compulsory module Optional module

5 3 Social work in England BA (Hons) Social Work (England) (Q32) Credits: 360 Start: Oct 2015 (registration closes 10 Sep 2015) Feb 2016 (registration closes 07 Jan 2016) Please note that there is a formal admissions process for the social work degree, so applications need to be received well in advance of the closing date for registrations. Please see Making a provisional booking and Completing the registration process on page 10 for more information. The information in this section is intended for employers in England who are considering sponsoring members of their staff on the social work degree programme, and for employees who wish to discuss the possibility of sponsorship with their manager or training department. Our publication Opening Doors: How to implement the Social Work Degree Programme (England) in your Agency contains more detailed information and can be downloaded from our website, click To request a copy by post or , phone our enquiry line (see back cover) or hsc-sw-enquiries@open.ac.uk. The OU offers a work-based distance learning route to the degree in social work. Successful graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a qualified social worker with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Interested in training as a social worker? In England the full degree programme is available only to staff who are working in social care and who are sponsored or supported by their employer. If you want to study this degree but are not currently employed in the field, you ll need to seek employment as an unqualified social care worker or support worker. It s essential to discuss your training options at any job interview. Some local authorities also offer traineeships. If you are an employer new to the OU Social Work programme We re delighted that you are considering sponsoring* a member of your staff on the social work programme at the OU. We hope that this prospectus will provide you with the information you need. Our current employer partners tell us that work-based learning is cost-effective for them, as employees continue to work while studying. They also say that the OU s programme can benefit the workplace as students apply what they have learnt immediately to their practice, and that it can help them to recruit and retain staff. If you have any questions or would just like to chat through the obligations of supporting a student, you can contact the Social Work Admissions Team based at the OU s main campus in Milton Keynes or your local health and social care staff tutor. Staff tutors are the OU s regionally based academics and each regional office will have one or more academics who represent the social work degree programme for a list of contacts click *By sponsorship we mean that the employer will enter into an agreement to collaborate with the OU on the delivery and supervision of the practice learning required by the programme. Module tuition fees may be paid either by the employer or the student; those who meet the eligibility criteria may apply for a government Tuition Fee Loan (see page 5). One of the benefits of the OU programme is that it offers a degree of flexibility to both employees and employers not available through more traditional academic institutions. This benefits both by providing the opportunity for adult learners to continue working while studying. The training material is always well thought out and presented and the support from tutors complements this. Personally, I have always found the advice of the regional office to be friendly, helpful and informative with a genuine willingness to work in partnership with our organisation; being responsive to suggestions for changes and seeking solutions to any difficulties. SUSIE MCLAGAN, SOCIAL WORK QUALIFYING LEAD DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, SHROPSHIRE COUNCIL

6 4 Social work in England Collaboration between the OU and employers The programme is work based and is offered in collaboration with employing agencies. The respective roles and responsibilities of the OU and employing agencies are summarised below: The Open University It is the responsibility of the OU to: ensure that all social work students are appropriately selected for training provide multimedia study materials for students, their tutors and practice educators provide tutorial support organise and administer all the assessment and award procedures. Sponsoring agencies It is the responsibility of agencies to: work with the OU to select members of staff suitable for training through distance learning support students by giving full-time release for the duration of practice placements, release to attend workshops and, where possible, the recommended study leave throughout the programme (see page 7) provide appropriate practice placements with suitable supervision in accordance with the requirements of the profession. Although the OU gives advice and encourages networking and placement swapping between agencies, it s the employer s responsibility to make suitable practicelearning and teaching arrangements. The full support of employers is essential to students success. Giving staff relief from their normal workload while they are engaged in practice learning, and allowing them to take study leave and time off to attend workshops and tutorials needs to be carefully planned and managed. It is important to remember that alongside the pressures of practice learning, students will be studying at honours degree academic standard. The responsibilities of the OU and sponsoring agencies are set out in a formal Collaboration Agreement that agencies will be asked to sign. If you anticipate any problems in complying with the terms of the agreement, please discuss these with the Social Work Admissions Team (see back cover for contact details). A sample collaboration agreement can be found in Opening Doors. Independent (non-sponsored) study It may be that before making the full commitment to the sponsorship arrangement, potential students and/or employers are unsure about whether a distance-learning programme is suitable, or that the student has the academic potential to study to degree level. It is therefore possible to start with the Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (England) (T02) (see page 11), without sponsorship from an employer and prior to applying for entry to the degree. This certificate comprises the first two modules in the degree programme, An introduction to health and social care (K101) and Foundations for social work practice (KYJ113). It can be funded by a Tuition Fee Loan if students meet the eligibility criteria and can be undertaken without any commitment to a sponsoring arrangement. Please note that the certificate does not give automatic entry onto the degree and candidates will still need to apply through the full selection process for entry at Stage 2. The OU programme has enabled our practitioners to achieve a social work degree while continuing to work and gain practice experience. The flexibility of the course is a major asset and ensures that sponsored workers receive consistency and a high quality of learning. The OU work closely with the sponsoring agency providing support, information and guidance. TERRI ANDERSON, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT FOR THE NSPCC Costs and help with funding Costs The main costs to take into account are: The standard fee for academic year 2015/2016 is 5400 based on 120 credits of study which is equivalent to a year s full-time study at a campus-based university. Students don t have to study 120 credits a year and the price paid will be proportionate to the standard fee; for example, if a student only studies 60 credits a year the cost will be 50 per cent of the standard fee. The tuition fee may be paid either by the student or the employer. Replacement costs (to replace staff on study leave or an external period of practice learning).

7 Social work in England 5 Practice learning and teaching provision (see Help with funding below). Travel and subsistence costs to attend workshops and external practice learning placements. OU set books. Approximately will be required for the purchase of set books. Cost of enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check including checks of children and adults barred lists for successful candidates if current criminal record check is either older than a year from programme start and/or checks have not been made against every part of the register. There are no rules about whether the student or the employer covers the cost of the tuition fee, travel, books and the DBS check, but we strongly recommend that you reach a clear agreement about this before making an application. Help with funding Practice placement funding The Department of Health has historically provided funding to support agencies providing practice placements for social work students, via the student s Higher Education Institution. Payment to placement providers has been made by the OU on confirmation that the practice placement has been completed payments for partially completed or repeated placements have also been made. The current funding arrangements are subject to ongoing government review. Payment rates for 2015 were 20 per placement day. Any changes to the arrangements for 2016 will be published on our website as soon as we are notified. Student bursaries Please note that students on work-based programmes are not eligible for the student bursaries administered by the NHS Business Services Authority, since there is an assumption that employers are making some contribution to the costs of study. Student loan The degree can be funded by a Part-Time Tuition Fee Loan if students meet the eligibility criteria. For further information, click I m lucky I had the money to pay for my course, but if I hadn t I d have used a loan to pay for it. It s a good investment, I m securing my future. Studying with the OU has boosted my confidence enormously. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who s thinking about returning to study. You can fit it around home life, family life and work, it s much more flexible than conventional universities. CLARE MOGGERIDGE, OU SOCIAL WORK GRADUATE Entry with credit Existing OU credit Students who have already completed modules currently included in the programme will be able to count them towards the social work degree 1. You will also be able to count Foundations for social work practice (KYJ113) in place of K113. You may be able to count credits from some discontinued modules towards your qualification. Please contact the Social Work Admissions Team to discuss this further (see back cover). 1 Please note that if you have already included a Stage 3 module in your profile for another OU honours degree, you cannot count it towards the social work degree as well. Credit transfer If students already hold a qualification at higher-education level which substantially covers the social sciences (for example, a degree in sociology or social policy, or a HND in a relevant subject), they may be able to gain exemption from the first module in the programme, An introduction to health and social care (K101). Only previous study which is approximately five years old or less will be considered. Exemption from both OU level 1 modules, An introduction to health and social care (K101) and Foundations for social work practice (K113), will only be considered for claimants who have completed relevant parts of the social work degree, or other qualification deemed suitable, at another university. References will be required. Application forms can be downloaded from the website (or you can contact the Credit Transfer Centre on ). Claims may take around eight weeks to process and must be completed before students are registered on the programme. Applicants are therefore strongly advised to submit their claim as early as possible.

8 6 Social work in England Programme structure To gain the BA (Hons) Social Work (England) (Q32), students must complete 360 credits over three stages 120 credits at each of OU levels 1, 2 and 3. The programme is made up of: modules (containing theory and practice), which the student works on mostly at home with tutorial support a minimum of 10 days readiness for practice linked to Foundations for social work practice (K113), a further 20 days of skills development and two substantive practice placements, completed in the workplace or with an external agency, linked to the Stage 2 and 3 practice-learning modules, Applied social work practice (K216) and Critical social work practice (K315). What you will study Stage credits Stage 1 provides a firm foundation for your social work qualification, developing underpinning knowledge and essential study skills, including digital and information literacy. An introduction to health and social care (K101) and Foundations for social work practice (K113) offer a fascinating insight into the organisation of social care in the UK, developing your awareness of the different components of good practice and building your confidence. There s no better way to begin your journey towards registration as a professional social worker, and as you progress through your studies, you ll return to your learning from these modules time and time again. Stage credits The law and social work in England and Wales (K270) covers a range of legal issues related to social care and social work practice including services for children and families; youth justice; immigration; community care and housing. You ll also examine the legal framework that shapes and regulates social care decision-making. By now you ll be ready to start applying your learning to your own practice. Applied social work practice (K216) will help you understand the key roles that social workers undertake and the relevant knowledge, values and skills of the social work process. You ll also undertake a 70-day practice placement. Stage credits You ll tailor this stage to your own interests and aspirations, choosing one of three options: Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319), Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) ideal if you re in or working towards a frontline management role or Working together for children (KE312). Finally, you ll study the practice module Critical social work practice (K315), and undertake a 100-day placement. You ll become an increasingly confident, critical, analytical and reflective practitioner, and an independent learner. After successfully completing your studies, you can apply to register with the social work regulator in England and begin your career as a qualified social worker. Qualification structure Study order as listed. Stage 1 module summary Compulsory modules 120 credits An introduction to health and social care (K101) Credits c 60 Foundations for social work practice (K113/KYJ113) 1 c 60 Stage 2 module summary Compulsory modules 120 credits The law and social work in England and Wales (K270) Credits c 60 Applied social work practice (K216) c 60 Stage 3 module summary Optional module 60 credits Select one from: Credits Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) o 60 Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) o 60 Working together for children (KE312) o 60 Compulsory module 60 credits Credits Critical social work practice (K315) c 60 Module availability is subject to change. 1 The different codes refer to whether the student has entered via the selection process (K113) or studied the module outside of the programme (KYJ113). There is no difference in the teaching or content. KYJ113 students who wish to progress onto Stage 2 must apply through the selection process (see Selection criteria on page 8 and our website Enter module code into search box at for module description. Programme length Students, in conjunction with their employers, can choose whether to study the programme over three, four, five or six years. The choice may depend on their past study experience, experience of distance learning, work and family commitments. Students must complete the programme within eight years of initial registration.

9 Social work in England 7 Start dates Practice learning modules start in January or February. Other modules at Stages 2 and 3 start in October. K101 has two start dates, both February and October. Students studying part time (ie. 60 credits per year) can choose from either start date. If students wish to complete the degree in the minimum of three years they will need to commence K101 in October: Stage credits Oct 2015 K101 Feb 2016 K113 I found OU study to be a structured and supportive process. I found my autonomy, confidence and professionalism increased, making my transition into employment easier. I am now undertaking post qualifying academic work and have found the skills I gained from The Open University have been transferable to my continuing studies CHARLOTTE HULBERT, SOCIAL WORKER, THE SWEET PROJECT Stage credits Oct 2016 K270 Feb 2017 K216 Stage credits Oct 2017 K319 or K313 or KE312 Feb 2018 K315 Studies complete in 3 years Progression rules The University progression rules require qualifications to be taken in stage order. For example before progressing to Stage 2, students must either have completed 120 credits at Stage 1, or have completed 60 credits at Stage 1 and be studying their remaining 60 credits at the same time as starting Stage 2. Specific rules governing study order within the social work degree are: Students can be registered to study a maximum of two 60-credit modules (one complete stage) at any one time. They must register for the academic component of each stage (K101, K270, K319 etc.) before, or at the same time as, the practice module for that stage. The practice modules (K113, K216 and K315) must be completed in consecutive order and students cannot study two practice modules in one year. Study leave Drawing upon past experience, we know that students with generous study leave and supportive employers are more likely to succeed and can do so in a shorter period of time. Exact arrangements for study leave should be agreed between employer and student and will depend on students work patterns. See Opening Doors for guidance on study leave allowance. Practice learning Further guidance on arrangements for practice learning is in Opening Doors but here are the most important points: Employers are responsible for arranging appropriate practice placements in accordance with the professional requirements for social work training. Students will need to complete a period of Readiness for Practice at Stage 1 of the degree. The two substantive practice placements take place at Stages 2 and 3 between February and August and will be undertaken three or four days a week. Students must complete 30 days of skills development during the degree. Workshops may count towards some of these days. It is a requirement that there should be as much contrast as possible between the two substantive practice placements in order to widen students learning experience. Students must work with two different service-user groups in different practice settings. One placement (usually the second) must include statutory tasks involving legal interventions. It may be possible for students in larger agencies to complete both periods of practice learning in their own agency, provided they meet the above requirements. However, smaller agencies will not be able to provide sufficient diversity between the two substantive practice placements and will need to negotiate with other agencies. Employers must provide suitable supervision for students engaged in practice learning which will include appointing suitably qualified practice educators. Practice educators should not be a student s line manager or owner/director of the student s sponsoring agency. The OU provides guidance for practice educators and workplace supervisors.

10 8 Social work in England Teaching and support Teaching and support for students is provided by the OU in conjunction with participating agencies. Tutorial support OU tutors will guide and support students throughout their academic studies and also monitor students progress throughout the year and take appropriate action if the student appears to be in difficulties either academically or in practice. Suitably qualified tutors organise practice-learning meetings with students, practice educators and workplace supervisors in order to draw up and review practice-learning agreements. Tutorials and workshops There are regular tutorials or day schools in conjunction with all the theory modules. Although they are optional, students are strongly recommended to attend them. The practice-learning modules are mediated through compulsory workshops and online discussions. These workshops will provide an important link in helping students to integrate their academic study with practice experience, and will form part of the required number of skills development days. In terms of what we expect from the OU, we expect world-class learning materials backed by excellent research and we get it. We expect well organised tutor support we get that as well and it s very important to students, particularly on a distance learning programme. SOCIAL WORK SPONSOR Peer support Some students working within the same agency or same locality set up informal study groups which meet in person; other students communicate by or phone. All social work students are expected to participate in online discussions as the sharing of ideas and experience will enrich their studies. Sponsorship Individuals cannot apply directly to the OU to study the BA (Hons) Social Work (England). All candidates must have the support of, and submit their application through, their employer. In local authorities this is usually the training and development department. As it is employers who are responsible for organising and supporting practice placements this is a requirement regardless of whether the employer or the student is paying the tuition fees. Before applying If a candidate would like to know more about the role of social workers before deciding if it s the profession for them, or if either individuals or employers would like to explore the academic requirements of studying at undergraduate level then more information can be found on our website at As part of their application process candidates will need to confirm that they have viewed these resources and considered how they apply to their own circumstances. We would encourage employers to discuss previous academic performance and academic expectations with potential candidates prior to a formal application being made. Selection criteria The aim of the selection process is to select candidates who are most likely to become confident, effective and safe practitioners and who will be able to uphold a positive image of the social work profession. The selection criteria are based on statements at entry level of the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF). The PCF sets out the profession s expectations of what a social worker should be able to do at each stage of their career and professional development from entry to training to principal social worker. More details of the PCF can be found on The College of Social Work s website at Entry requirements As part of the selection process all candidates must: Complete an OU application form which will include a personal statement, references and employer endorsement. Complete a declaration of suitability for social work. Have GCSE grade A* C in English and mathematics or certified equivalent. Meet the UCAS threshold of 240 tariff points or equivalent.

11 Social work in England 9 Demonstrate IT competence through self declaration. Achieve an International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) score of 7 if English is not their first language. Undertake a written test. Take part in an interview. Have an enhanced DBS with lists check (i.e. checks against all registers including both children and adults) dated within one year prior to starting the programme. Complete a health check. If, in exceptional circumstances, there are serious doubts about a student s fitness to practise on health grounds, the University s doctor may ask him/her to undergo a medical examination. This examination will be at the student s own expense. Candidates are expected to provide originals of their educational and other certificates, including DBS. Please therefore allow sufficient time for candidates to obtain the above documents when putting them forward for the selection process. English and mathematics requirement All candidates must have GCSE grade A* C or certificated equivalent in both English language and mathematics. Most local colleges of further education offer GCSE courses both during the day and in the evening. Alternatively, candidates could undertake a free national test in literacy and/ or numeracy (Level 2 or above) through learndirect. Applicants with overseas qualifications must provide proof of equivalence from the National Recognition Information Centre (UK NARIC) There is a charge for this service. The OU will accept certain modules of its own as equivalent to the above for the purposes of entry to the social work degree. Further information is provided in Opening Doors and on our website. If you need further advice please contact the Social Work Admissions Team (see back cover). If a candidate does not have A level or equivalent qualifications, or if their qualifications do not meet the UCAS threshold, or if there has been a significant gap since their qualifications were obtained then the OU will accept the successful completion of the module An introduction to health and social care (K101) as evidence of their academic capability. Candidates wishing to use K101 as an alternative to UCAS points must pass the module prior to submitting an application. Students may study K113 on the independent route (KYJ113) before applying to the programme. However, it should be noted that successful completion of KYJ113 does not guarantee acceptance on to the degree. Criminal records check It is a regulatory requirement that all successful candidates must obtain a satisfactory enhanced criminal records check. As social work students will be carrying out regulated activity we require that any check includes a check against both the children and adult barred lists. All checks will be carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service. It is essential that checks are made on all registers since students will be working with different client groups while undertaking their practice placements. Competence in written and spoken English For entry to the OU programme, successful candidates for whom English is not their first language must meet communicating and comprehension skills to IELTS at Level 7. This is a requirement of the new regulatory body of social work, the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and is already required for other professions such as teaching, nursing and other health staff. Further details of the test, location of testing centres and fees can be found on the IELTS website at Academic entry requirements For entry to the OU programme, all candidates must meet the minimum standards of prior academic achievement as recommended by the Social Work Reform Board. Where candidates hold A levels (or equivalent qualifications) they must meet a UCAS threshold of 240 which is the equivalent to grades CCC. Details of tariff points awarded to various qualifications can be found at The OU will accept a BA or BSc degree in any subject as meeting this requirement.

12 10 Social work in England Health check (fitness to practice) Social work is a demanding and sometimes stressful occupation. In line with regulatory requirements the programme seeks to ensure that all students are willing and able to identify and manage their own needs in a way that avoids any risk to the safety of service users, or to themselves. Large employers with their own Occupational Health Teams will be asked to sign a medical form confirming candidates fitness to practise. For small organisations which are unable to undertake their own medical checks we can provide candidates with a medical questionnaire for checking by a private company, MK Occupational Health. There is a charge of 22 per check. Further information on health checks is provided in Opening Doors. The selection process There are two routes to selection onto the social work programme at the OU. Employers can decide whether to: carry out their own selection of candidates (most large employers are likely to have tried and tested procedures and prefer to carry out their own selection) or request that their employees attend an OU selection day (this is likely to be the preferred option for small agencies that are sponsoring staff on a one-off basis and don t have well developed selection procedures). Detailed information about the selection process can be found in Opening Doors. Making a provisional booking Please book early by completing a Provisional Booking form which can be found on our website, click or sent to you by or post (see back cover). Candidates must go through the selection process which can take around three to four months before they can be registered so it is important to build sufficient time into your planning. The deadline to submit a provisional booking is: 1 June 2015 for modules starting in October August 2015 for modules starting in January On receipt of your booking, we will send you: A copy of Opening Doors, which will give you further advice on the selection process, arrangements for practice learning, etc. An application pack containing copies of the forms (also available on the website). A Registration Agreement form (to be signed by the student) and a Sponsorship form (to be signed by the employer) if the agency is going to pay tuition fees 1. 1 If the student is going to pay their own fees they will be sent separate payment details once the selection process is complete and their place on the programme confirmed. Completing the registration process For candidates to be put forward for an OU selection day, a completed application form plus supporting paperwork (as set out in Opening Doors) and Selection Day Request form must be returned by: 3 July 2015 for modules starting in October September 2015 for modules starting in January/ February Employers who carry out their own selection, must ensure that the OU receives a full set of application paperwork from each selected candidate (see Opening Doors for details) prior to registration. Please ensure you allow sufficient time to collect all the documentation well in advance of the closing date. After the selection process, a signed Registration Agreement must be returned for each new student together with an employer Sponsorship form if applicable.

13 Social work in England 11 Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (England) (T02) Credits: 120 Start: Oct 2015 (registration closes 10 Sep 2015) Feb 2016 (registration closes 07 Jan 2016) Are you thinking about going into social work or social care? This certificate is the ideal way to find out if it s the right career for you. It will give you an insight into social work and social care in England, starting with an up-to-date, authoritative overview of care services with real-life case studies taking you deep into the experience of giving and receiving care. You ll also develop your knowledge of social work standards and codes of practice relevant to each UK nation. You ll explore ideas about what social work is using case studies with children, older people, mental-health communities, children with disabilities and people with learning disabilities to apply learning to practice contexts. This certificate also builds key skills in information and communication technologies (ICT), digital and information literacy and reflective writing. You will need to arrange to have at least 10 days practical experience of working alongside people in a social care setting, to offer support while you study. This could be part of your present role in social care or as a volunteer. Please note that this certificate is not a qualifying social work award, and does not give automatic entry to the social work degree programme (which requires you to attend an interview and has specific entry requirements, including working in a social care setting and meeting minimum academic requirements in maths and English). However, if you do subsequently gain entry to the programme, you ll be able to count this certificate towards your degree. What you will study Stage credits The two modules that make up this certificate An introduction to health and social care (K101) and Foundations for social work practice (KYJ113) provide a fascinating insight into the organisation of social care in the UK and of the different components of good social work practice. They ll also build your confidence by steadily developing and enhancing your study skills including digital and information literacy and reflective writing. Key concepts around communication will open up your thinking about how professional practice is informed and underpinned by theory, and you ll make connections between your studies and your own personal and professional experience. Qualification structure Study order as listed. Stage 1 module summary Compulsory modules 120 credits An introduction to health and social care (K101) Credits c 60 Foundations for social work practice (KYJ113) c 60 Module availability is subject to change. Enter module code into search box at for module description. Career relevance and employability If you re considering a career in social work, this certificate provides an excellent introduction. It will also equip you with valuable skills and experience which may help you gain further employment or enable you to progress on to professional training.

14 12 Social work in Scotland Social work in Scotland BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) (Q41) Credits: 480 Start: Oct 2015 (registration closes 10 Sep 2015) Feb 2016 (registration closes 07 Jan 2016) Please note that there is a formal admissions process for the social work degree, so applications need to be received well in advance of the closing date for registrations. Please see Registration on page 18 for more information. This section is intended for employers in Scotland who are considering sponsoring members of staff on the social work degree programme and for individuals considering social work training via either the sponsored or independent route. The Open University offers a work-based distance learning route to the degree in social work and eligibility to apply for registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) upon successful completion. The programme has been approved by the SSSC. The degree programme is available to staff who are working in social care, are sponsored and supported by their employer or who meet the selection criteria for the independent (non-sponsored) route and are selected onto the degree. Alternatively, you will need to seek employment as an unqualified social care worker or support worker and gain sponsorship. It is essential to discuss your training options at any job interview. Some local authorities also offer traineeships. Programme benefits The social work degree programme offers significant benefits to employers and their staff. The programme: contributes to recruitment and retention by providing opportunities for career progression provides training opportunities for experienced staff who are unable, for financial or family reasons, to access traditional university courses gives employers substantial involvement in the selection of suitable candidates and the management of practice learning provides cost-effective work-based education and training which can benefit the workplace as a whole is modular in structure, giving students flexibility in fitting study around family and work commitments. Our BA (Hons) Social Work sponsorship programme provides the opportunity for our staff to engage with a high-quality learning experience which is valued by us as an employer. The investment of the student and employer over the programme has, for us, resulted in excellence in terms of readiness to practice as a social worker in challenging environments. The relevance of the module material supports practice at all levels of our workforce. The opportunity, which fits with and builds on the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our staff, is highly regarded in relation to our learning and workforce development agenda. GILLIAN FERGUSON, LEARNING AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, DUNDEE CITY COUNCIL Collaboration between the OU and employers The programme is work based and is offered in collaboration with sponsoring agencies. The respective roles and responsibilities of The Open University and sponsoring agencies are as follows: The Open University It is the responsibility of The Open University to: ensure that all social work students are appropriately selected for training provide multimedia study materials for students, their tutors and practice assessors provide tutorial support organise and administer all the assessment and award procedures ensure students are registered on the SSSC register as student social workers.

15 Social work in Scotland 13 Sponsoring agencies It is the responsibility of agencies to: work with The Open University to select members of staff suitable for training through distance learning (employers who decide to make a provisional booking for one or more students will be sent further guidance on the selection of students and organising practice learning) sponsor staff who are selected ensure payment of fees support students by giving study leave throughout the programme (see page 17) in addition to full-time release for the duration of the practice-learning period(s) at least one of which must be external to the sponsoring agency, and support students to attend practice-learning workshops provide appropriate practice-learning opportunities with suitable supervision. Although the University gives advice and encourages networking and placement swapping between agencies, it is the employer s responsibility to make suitable practice-learning arrangements. SSSC requirements are that at least one of the PLOs is in an agency external to the sponsoring agency. The full support of employers is essential to students success. Careful planning and management is required by employers in order to give staff relief from their normal workload while they are engaged in practice learning and to enable staff to take study leave and time off, if necessary, to attend workshops and tutorials. The responsibilities of the University and sponsoring agencies are set out in a formal Collaboration Agreement. Employers will also be required to sign a Sponsorship Agreement undertaking liability for the fees. Costs and help with funding Sponsored students The main costs employers need to take into account are: Open University module tuition fees. For students resident in Scotland, the total cost of the programme at 2015/16 fee levels would be approximately 11,020 for students entering the programme at Stage 1, 9,354 for those who are eligible to begin at Stage 2 or 7,126 for those joining at Stage 3 (see Entry with credit page 14 and Graduate entry route page 19 for further information). The cost will vary if students have already completed modules in advance of formal sponsorship onto the programme. Replacement costs (to replace staff on study leave or external periods of practice learning). Practice learning provision (see below for Practice learning funding). Travel and subsistence costs to attend workshops and external practice learning placements. Open University set books. Approximately will be required for the purchase of set books. Updating of student s Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) membership. There are no rules about whether the student or the employer covers the cost of travel, books and the PVG membership, but we strongly recommend that you reach a clear agreement about this before making an application. Independent (non-sponsored) students Students on the independent route who meet the criteria may be eligible for financial assistance with their fees. Further information regarding financial support can be found on and at Other costs include travel and subsistence expenses, set books and payment for any updates of membership of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups scheme required for practice learning. Please note it may be necessary to negotiate travel expenses with the practice learning agency before the start of the practice learning opportunities. Practice learning funding Each year the programme receives money from the SSSC which is distributed to agencies to help towards the cost of providing practice learning opportunities (PLOs). Payment will be made by The Open University on confirmation that the PLO has been completed. In 2015 the rates were 18 per day (for 100 days) for statutory agencies and 28 per day for voluntary and independent agencies. Evidence of charitable or company status has to be provided in order for payments to be made at the higher rate. Please note that funding does not apply to the preparation for practice days at Stage 2. Selection and entry requirements All candidates must: provide evidence of their ability to understand and communicate in written and spoken English demonstrate that they have appropriate personal and intellectual qualities to train as social workers take part in an interview register as a student social worker with the SSSC provide evidence of Standard Grade Two in English or a recognised equivalent on application, or complete An introduction to health and social care (K101) or Introducing the social sciences (DD102) (the foundation modules for the programme) before formally registering for the degree. Students who achieve a pass will be considered to have demonstrated the required standard for English provide evidence of Standard Grade Two in mathematics or a recognised equivalent on application, or undertake an Open University written test in numeracy administered by employers (the University will give employers guidance on how students can be prepared for this test). Contact the Social Work Co-ordinator, Scotland, for advice on recognised equivalent qualifications (see back cover).

16 14 Social work in Scotland Selection process Sponsored students All students are required by the SSSC to go through a selection process. Employers can decide whether to: Carry out their own selection of candidates. Most major employers are likely to have tried-and-tested procedures and will carry out their own selection. If they choose this option, employers will be asked to provide information about their selection processes in order for the University to ensure that they are rigorous and fair. Please note that all selection material will be scrutinised by a member of the University s academic staff at The Open University in Scotland and the University will reject applications which do not meet the required standard. (Further information about obtaining Approved Agency Status can be found in the Selection Pack for Employers available from The Open University in Scotland on request.) or Request that the University arranges for them to be linked to another agency that has been approved by the University to undertake selection. or Request that the University carries out selection in partnership with the employer. Independent (non-sponsored) students The modules at Stages 1 and 2 and the Stage 3 module The law and social work in Scotland (K207) may all be studied independently as a non-sponsored student. A limited number of places are available for students to continue through Stage 3 and onto Stage 4 without sponsorship. Students must have successfully completed Stages 1 and 2 of the OU social work degree and meet the entry requirements to be eligible to apply for the independent route. Eligible students will be contacted by the Social Work Co-ordinator, Scotland, in March of the preceding year and invited to note their interest. Please note that because of the degree entry requirements and restricted numbers, successful completion of Stages 1 and 2 does not guarantee admission onto the independent route. Credit transfer Students who hold relevant qualifications may be able to obtain credit for all or part of Stage 1 of the programme. Students who hold the HNC in Social Care with an SVQ3 in Care, Health and Social Care or a related subject may be able to obtain 120 credits for the whole of Stage 1. These modules must have been completed within ten years at the point of registration for the programme. Please check with the Social Work Co-ordinator, Scotland (see back cover). Further details about credit transfer arrangements can be obtained from or from The Open University in Scotland (see back cover). Please note that students who wish to make a claim for credit must apply for this through the Credit Transfer Centre before they can register on the social work degree. Programme structure Students must complete 480 credits over four stages 120 credits at each stage. The programme is made up of: Modules (containing theory and practice), which the student works on mostly at home with tutorial support. A minimum of 10 days readiness for practice linked to Foundations for social work practice (K113), and two 100-day practice placements, completed in the workplace or with an external agency, linked to the Stage 2 and 3 practice-learning modules Applied social work practice (K216) and Critical social work practice (K315). Entry with credit Existing Open University credit Students who have already completed modules currently in the degree programme up to the end of Stage 3 will be able to count their credit towards the social work degree. Students can only count previous Open University study if it is no older than ten years. This is the current position, but it may change. Please check with the Social Work Co-ordinator, Scotland (see back cover). You will be required to demonstrate an understanding of key capabilities in child care and protection before you are able to take the Stage 3 module Applied social work practice (K216).