Information for students

We understand that as a student social worker, your studies may have been affected by COVID-19.

As the regulator for social work courses, we want you to continue to have the very best teaching, training and practice experience so you can practise to the very highest standards.   

How we’re working with education providers

Our approach to regulation is designed to be as flexible as possible. We’re constantly working closely with education providers to enable adjustments to courses where necessary, so they can manage their own response to COVID-19 based on their local arrangements. 

Many providers have found new and creative ways to deliver courses, so that wherever possible, you can progress and graduate on time. These will differ from provider to provider and are necessary due to the local arrangements in place at your institution.

Your marks should not be negatively affected by alternative modes of assessment. You should discuss what specific arrangements have been put in place with your course provider.

Placements

In previous advice we said that education providers can consider a reduction in the number of placement days. This is still the case. Our education and training standards 2021 require that students spend at least 200 days (including up to 30 skills days) gaining different experiences and learning in practice settings.

However, COVID-19 adjustments can still apply as long as the course provider is able to demonstrate how the student is able to meet our new requirement and can apply to join the register on completion of their studies.

Students with any questions or concerns about placements should speak to their providers in the first instance.

Key workers 

Social work students continue to be recognised by the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) as key workers supporting the national response to COVID-19. You may need to ask your education provider for evidence of this to access services like childcare places. Providers should be able to send students a letter or email confirming your key worker status.

Assessed and supported year in employment (ASYE)

The ASYE is intended to provide a year of support and assessment for newly qualified social workers. Social Work England is not responsible for the ASYE programme, but we are continuing to engage with Skills for Care on ASYE to ensure newly qualified social workers on ASYE courses get the support required as they transition from social work student to qualified practitioner during the pandemic.

Where to find information 

While we regularly provide COVID-19 updates and guidance on our website, the best place for you to find information is your university or college.

You may also find the following sources of information useful: 

• Student Space can help you to find the support you need on wellbeing, studying, money and more
• The Office for Students has published frequently asked questions for students
• Discover Uni has up-to-date information for students
• Read more about social work bursaries