Jobs

Exciting Social Work Apprenticeship Opportunity!

This is your chance to kickstart a meaningful career with a real impact. Apply now and take the first step toward becoming a qualified social worker!

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you want to earn while you learn and develop a rewarding career in social work?

We are offering a Social Work Apprenticeship starting in September 2026 where you will gain hands-on experience, a professional qualification, and the opportunity to support individuals, families, and communities. Posts are available in the following Teams:

• Safeguarding Team Learning Disability Team

Apprentices will be employed as Social Care Officers on a 3-year fixed term contact. The successful candidates would work 37 hours per week potentially across 7 days.  Once qualified, a social work post will be offered. 

A degree apprenticeship is a great opportunity, whatever your age.  On this degree apprenticeship you will attend Warwick University one day per week – alternating between face to face and online learning. You will evidence your learning through assignments and on the job activities. You will be supported by your team, your line manager, a university tutor and a designated Practice Educator in your workplace. 

This is an exciting time to join Sandwell Adult Social Care.  Our social work academy will provide support and development opportunities throughout your ASYE and through your social work career. We believe in a culture of trust, inclusivity and empowerment to unlock potential and strengthen the social workforce.

What We Offer:

• Paid apprenticeship with a structured learning program
• Work alongside experienced social workers
• Fully funded qualification in social work
• Supportive and inclusive working environment
• Real-life experience in helping people overcome challenges                               

We offer up to 36 days annual leave, depending upon service and the option to purchase up to an additional 10 days leave as well as a generous pension scheme.                                                                                         

Who We're Looking For:

• Passionate about helping others
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Committed to learning and professional development
• A team player with empathy and resilience                                                           
• Some experience of social care whether in a professional or personal capacity 

Successful candidates will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS with Children and Adults barring check.

Eligibility criteria – please refer to the person specification and the Professional Capabilities Framework at Entry Level. 

In addition:

You must have Level 2 English – certificate required Expectation to remain in employment with Sandwell for three years post qualification Under the Department for Education’s Apprenticeship Funding Rules, an apprentice must hold confirmed immigration permission that covers the full duration of the programme, including the end-point assessment. For the 2026 cohort, this required permission to remain in the UK until at least 7 July 2029. Applicants must be available for interview on 13^th and 15^th May.

The Application Process

Please read the guidance below to aid your application.

Click here  Point of entry to training | BASW to read the Professional Capabilities Framework at entry level which must be referred to throughout your personal statement

CV's and a covering letter need to be sent to SocialWork_Academy@sandwell.gov.uk

Closing date: Midday on 6^th May 2026

Company: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Salary: Band E SCP 18-25 (£31,537 – £36,363 per annum)

Location: Sandwell, West Midlands, West Midlands

Sector: Health and Social Care

Sector: Health

Sector: Adult Services

Job Role: Social Worker

Job Role: Apprenticeship