PG Diploma Social Work (Step Up to Social Work)

View key dates, information, documentation and contact support for this programme.

Programme information

Step Up to Social Work is an intensive full-time, fully funded, Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work training programme that provides learners with the knowledge and skills to become a qualified social worker in just 14 months.

Successful applicants must demonstrate a commitment to making a difference for disadvantaged children and families along with a willingness to learn, be emotionally resilient and the ability to undertake this challenging yet hugely rewarding academic degree programme.

Applications to Step Up to Social Work are made to the Department of Education in the first instance Please note that applications for the 2026 intake are now closed.

For more information on the application process and to sign up for updates, please visit Step up to social work: GOV.UK.

Programme structure

You will study:

Psychosocial Approaches across the Life Course, theory, research and practice
Policy Contexts and Legal Frameworks for Social Work
People and their Communities, Placement 1: 70 days
Contemporary issues in Child Protection
Social Workers and their Organisations, Placement 2: 100 days
30 Skills days with a practice focus

Key dates

Academic year 2025-27

Residential induction week: 5-8 January 2026
Placement 1 starts: 9 February 2026 (70 days)
Placement 2 starts: 3 August 2026 (100 days)

Log in to ARC

Complete your timesheet in PoW (placements on the web)

ARC PEP and Audit (practice environment profile)

Placement guidance

PebblePad guidance
Social work placement handbook - Step up to Social Work 2025-2026 (PDF)
Professional practice support contacts page

Programme support

If you have any queries or questions about the Postgraduate Diploma Step Up to Social Work or require support, please contact a member of the programme team.