Take learning into your own hands with an apprenticeship
Some social care careers now have an alternative entry route through apprenticeships. For some subjects such as occupational therapy or nursing, there are particular apprenticeship routes which can be explored by clicking the relevant pathways on this platform. In this section, we’ll be focusing on some of the other areas relevant to social care - namely social work.
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Social care apprenticeships - an alternative way of learning
For those wanting to pursue a career in social care, the apprenticeship pathway is an appealing entry route into the area. There are many different social care apprenticeships that cater to different education levels, as we’ve already seen. Typically offering a more placement or practical based learning experience, combining classroom with on-the-job learning, apprenticeships help develop skills and knowledge needed to be an integral part of the social care landscape.
What’s it really like?
Traditional university degrees and apprenticeships have some similarities - primarily in the qualification that you’ll receive. Apprenticeships in social work are often referred to as degree apprenticeships - this just means that although the format of the education may be different, students would still obtain the same qualification.
Apprenticeships are hosted by universities, but this is done collaboratively with partner organisations such as care providers or social care organisations. Often, they will be the organisations that will have details of opportunities.
There are some similarities between typical university degrees and degree apprenticeships. Students undertaking a degree apprenticeship will spend approximately 80% of their time in clinical settings, with the rest in a learning environment. As the time at university will be less than some other students, the time to complete an apprenticeship can take longer - this can be between two and four years.
As students undertaking a degree apprenticeship, the curriculum won’t differ drastically from the curriculum that is studied by those undertaking the traditional route. An important thing to note is that social work degree apprenticeships aren’t currently available at every university. So, it’s important to do your research, and check for the apprenticeships online, and which university they’re connected to.
If you’re an aspiring social work student who is interested in spending more time in placements, the degree apprenticeship could be the route for you.
FAQS
What do I need to be accepted onto a social care apprenticeship?
Can I get financial support?
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