Change your career and become a social worker!
Have you got a degree (2.2 or above) in a subject that no longer appeals, or do you want a complete career change with a guaranteed job at the end of it? Then, we have a fantastic opportunity for you. The Frontline programme is designed to support people wanting to convert their degree and work towards a new career as a children’s social worker.
The programme developed by Frontline – England’s largest social work charity, is a 3-year intensive programme aimed at passionate individuals committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children, young people and their families. The programme allows you to learn on the job whilst earning an attractive salary. In addition, you will also work towards a fully funded master’s degree in Advanced Relationship-Based Social Work Practice with Children and Families, awarded by Lancaster University. However, the best bit is you can request to do the working part of the programme with us here in Devon County Council!
What are the benefits of the programme?
Become a fully qualified social worker with a guaranteed career path at the end of it!
Earn as you learn with a salary of up to £34,000 from year two.
Complete a fully funded master's degree.
Get high-quality training and supervision from experienced social workers, academics and coaches in a rich, supportive environment.
Become part of the Frontline Fellowship and receive ongoing support and training throughout your career.
What does the Frontline programme look like?
Your journey starts in summer, with five weeks of intensive study that takes place mostly online, with five in-person days. Our leading academics and sector experts will introduce you to the social work theory and prepare you for your work placement.
Once you have a solid foundation, you’ll start your placement here in Children’s Social Care. You’ll work in a close-knit hub of trainees managed by an experienced social worker and supported by your practice tutor. Together, you will start supporting children and families, while gradually increasing your level of responsibility. Regular skill days and academic work will deepen your knowledge, and after your first year, you will qualify as a newly qualified social worker.
Year two is when you start to manage your own caseload, while continuing to study and develop your skills, knowledge and professional confidence. But you’ll still receive high levels of support from your Frontline practice tutor, local council employer and fellow trainees. Your third and final year consolidates everything you have learned as you carry out a research project and complete the final academic credits of your social work master’s degree. We also offer leadership coaching in year three to support you further.
What is Frontline looking for in a candidate?
You should meet the following criteria
Have at least a 2.2 (predicted or obtained) in an undergraduate honours' degree (or international equivalent).
Have obtained GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above (or approved equivalent qualification).
Possess the right to work and study in the UK (including access to public funds) for the duration of the programme (until September 2027).
Be resident in England by the time the programme commences.
You must not be a qualified social worker (already hold a degree in social work).
You don’t need any particular experience to apply to the Frontline programme. However, passionate individual who can bring different perspectives and experiences to the programme and are committed to advocating for the diverse communities, will always be a bonus.
How to apply- applications are now open!
To apply for the programme, you must apply to Frontline directly, as they manage the programme and choose the successful candidates. However, you can request to do the work experience part of the programme here with Devon County Council through the Children’s Social Care Academy.
Applications for newt years cohort, joining the programme in July 2024 are now open! For more information on the programme or to apply, visit the Frontline programme.

Devon Children’s Social Care Academy
Devon Children's Social Care Academy provides innovative learning and development opportunities for those within Children's Social Care.

Children’s Social Care
Find out more about what it's like to work within the Children's Social Care team. Working restoratively with children, young people and their families throughout Devon.

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