Newly published textbook will support Social Work Apprentices

A Staffordshire University academic is celebrating the publication of a new book which aims to help social work degree apprentices navigate their way through to professional qualification.

The Social Work Degree Apprenticeship is edited by Clare Stone from the University of Central Lancashire, who helped deliver the first social work degree apprenticeships,  and Mary Shannon, Head of Department for Social Work and Wellbeing at Staffordshire University.  It includes contributions from a number of staff and students at Staffordshire University as well as partners including Lee Pardy McLaughlin OBE, Principal Social Worker at Stoke-on-Trent City Council..

Mary Shannon has extensive practice experience in social work and social care including safeguarding children and young people. An experienced lecturer, she has also been a member of two higher apprenticeship reference groups and oversees a regional Social Work Apprentice qualifying programme.

She said: “This textbook is the first to focus on the Social Work Degree Apprenticeship which is being provided nationally across a number of universities. It is aimed at those who are undertaking the degree, academic and mentor staff and employer partners. A unique element of the book is that it includes the voice and experience of current apprentices and service users.”

More than 80 apprentices are currently enrolled on the Social Work Degree Apprenticeship at Staffordshire University which was set up in partnership with local employers.

Mary added: “The Social Work Degree Apprenticeship is a relatively new route to qualifying as a social worker but comes with its own challenges. Very often the apprentices are mature students who are having to juggle work, study and family life and having to meet both the expectations of their employer and the university they are studying at.

“The textbook book has been compiled especially to support those people who may have no previous experience of higher education and includes some excellent contributions and practical advice from a range of stakeholders.”

Maria Scrivens

Communications Manager

t: 01782 294375

m: 07766 520339

e: m.c.scrivens@staffs.ac.uk

Staffordshire University is a Civic University which plays a leading role in improving the regional economy and enhancing quality of life in local communities. We pride ourselves on being connected to the needs of students, academic partners, business and society.

We ranked 6th for social inclusion in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 and were in the top 15 for Student Satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2022.

Our main city campus in Stoke-on-Trent features excellent learning and teaching facilities and good transport links. We have a Centre for Health Innovation in Stafford and our Staffordshire University London campus is committed to preparing students for careers in new and emerging tech industries.