Launched in February 2024, the academy is a new initiative that aims to provide a high-quality and consistent program of learning for children’s social workers. It has offered support at every stage to our current workforce who are: 

• Students on placement. 
• Newly qualified social workers. 
• Experienced social workers who want to develop their skills and knowledge. 
• Practice educators and managers who supervise and mentor social workers 

Delivered through the team in Barnsley's innovative Practice Development Hub, the academy is committed to promoting staff wellbeing and resilience, supporting career development, and making sure that all of their social workers are treated fairly in an inclusive workplace which recognises and celebrates diversity.  

Expanding their offer, they have now welcomed twelve newly-qualified social workers (NQSWs) and eight apprentices to join the programme of learning through the Social Work Academy. Four of the apprentices are joining from Barnsley College following close working with their services over the past year to prepare social care students to help kickstart their journey. Similarly, many of their NQSWs are returning to Barnsley's children’s social care teams after completing their university student placements with them. 

The work of the academy feeds into the ambition of making Barnsley Council the employer of choice for social workers, highlighting the proactive and supportive networks available for people working in children’s social care in the organisation. Enhancing their support, training and development offer for new or apprentice children’s social workers helps to raise the standards and improve overall outcomes for children, young people and families in Barnsley. 

Members of the academy will undertake a detailed four-week induction with the team in the Practice Development Hub, enjoying learning opportunities, building practice knowledge and developing relationships, leading to the gradual allocation of their first cases to make sure they feel fully supported and prepared. 

Councillor Trevor Cave, Cabinet spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: “We recognise the vital role social workers play, which is why we have transformed our children’s social work offer to make sure we provide the best support, training and development for our staff. 

“It’s brilliant to see so many students return to be a part of the academy after finishing university, as well as so many young people looking to join this important profession thanks to the partnership work with Barnsley College. This clearly highlights how the supportive culture we’ve developed in our social care teams is helping us grow and retain local talent. 

“I wish our new starters all the best during their time in the academy and look forward to hearing more about their journeys.” 

Emma Harvey, Childcare and Health Programme Manager at Barnsley College, said: "This has been a fantastic opportunity for our students to further develop the skills needed for a successful career in children’s social work.  

“We're excited to see our apprentices not only engage with the programme but also thrive within it.  

“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to preparing the next generation of social workers who are well-equipped to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families in our community." 

Barnsley are always looking for dedicated and caring social work professionals to join their children’s social care team. In return they provide a whole range of benefits including flexible working, competitive salaries, 1-2-1 support, career development opportunities and more. Find out more about progressing a career in Barnsley Children’s social care on their website.