Qualifications in social care and social work

There are a wide range of recognised qualifications relevant to those working in children's social care.

For many the National Vocational Qualification (NVQs) in Health and Social Care at level 3 or 4 will be most appropriate. There are children's specialist pathways within these awards.

For those wishing to become Social Workers the current required qualification is a degree in social work. Progression beyond the entry qualification is through the post-qualifying framework, details are in the next section.

For managers there are a range of qualifications, including the Registered Managers (Child Care) Award. This is currently being reviewed and it is planned to develop a new ‘Managers of Care Services' qualification. This work is being led by Skills for Care and details of the consultation process can be accessed through this link.

Further details of qualifications in social work and social care can be accessed through these links.

Work is underway to develop an integrated qualifications framework for those working in children's services, across all sectors. This is due to be in place in 2010 and will encourage greater flexibility in career pathways. Detailed proposals will be published in due course.

The new publication ‘Clear Progression 2008' launched jointly by CWDC and the Childrens Workforce Network sets out the vision and the next steps for the Integrated Qualifications Framework.