Newly Qualified Social Worker

Some key information

• This 12-month programme offers a positive introduction to social work with children in Somerset and the social work profession in general.
• This is a permanent position which is an integral part of Somerset's commitment to succession planning
• If you are relocating to Somerset in order to take up a position as a Newly Qualified Social Worker you may be eligible for a relocation allowance.
• Opportunities across Somerset in Shepton Mallet, Bridgwater, Taunton and Yeovil
• At Somerset Council, we are proud to support our frontline workers with access to innovative AI technology. Our greatest asset is our dedicated workforce, and we need to ensure we evolve with technology and new ways to invest in them. We're currently utilising Magic Notes, which has proven to help social workers reduce the amount of time spent on administrative work, allowing them to focus on using their skillset and creativity to support our shared vision of improving the life chances and outcomes for children in Somerset.

What will I be doing?

You will begin your career with us with an attractive starting salary of £37,280 and from day 1 you will be able to take advantage of the benefits of being an employed member of Somerset Council staff, including staff discounts and a great pension.

You will be supported by your allocated Consultant Social Worker (CSW), your Team Manager and your team to achieve your potential. Opportunities for a varied but protected caseload will be offered enabling you to complete the ASYE. You are required to complete a portfolio which is assessed against the DfE Knowledge and Skills Statement (KSS); study time is provided allowing time to undertake research, to reflect and to complete portfolio paperwork.

We are an approachable organisation which wants our NQSWs to thrive in the ASYE programme and then stay with us. This is a great opportunity for your career but also an important factor in providing the right support for vulnerable children and families in our county. The enhanced programme is Somerset's next step to achieving a permanent quality work force.

Our current Newly Qualified Social Workers have fed back the following:

"I found the ASYE programme to be a pivotal part of my social work journey. It was a time that provided protection of a manageable case load, and extra support whilst learning the basis of my social work career. I found the regular extra supervisions to be extremely helpful, as this provided a safe space to share my journey with a person I was building a trusting relationship with. The portfolio was practically helpful in developing my skills to reflect on my practice, and I found receiving feedback was imperative to my growth and best practice".
"The ASYE programme is a really good way to start your career as a Social Worker, there is a lot of support during the programme and a reduced caseload to start with helps ease you into your role as a Social Worker"
"Really supportive staffing and resources available to help you as a Newly Qualified Social Worker which has been very beneficial in my career"
"Good quality training and protected develop time, supervision is reflective and regular with emphasis on critical evaluation of practice and self-awareness"
What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

• You must have a recognised and professional Social Work qualification which was obtained within the last four years.
• We want our NQSWs to have high aspirations and a willingness to learn and develop.
• Once you have completed your ASYE, the support does not stop there as you will have access to mentor support for your second year along with high quality, mindful supervision.
• A valid UK driving licence is required, as you will need to travel to different locations in order to undertake the duties of the role.

What's in it for me?

We are proud to offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding, working as part of a team who are passionate about the work they do to improve the lives of people in Somerset. We offer great training and development opportunities with a tailored programme designed for ASYE with direct access to a Consultant Social Worker and weekly CPD sessions and group supervision.

Anything else I should know?

You will be expected to attend
a face to face interview at County Hall, Taunton
which will take place
9 December
2025
please keep this date free if you are applying.

If you would like to discuss this opportunity, please contact Kathryn Andrews

Part time hours may be considered for the right candidate.

A Bit More About Somerset Council
People's Plan Somerset Children and Young People's Plan

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DBS information

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