****Internal applicants only****
This vacancy is open to internal staff only

About us

We are seeking motivated and enthusiastic people who can commit to work and train as apprentice social workers, starting in January 2025.

Here at Warrington, we are committed in how our children services staff play a fundamental role in the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in our town. We provide staff with the opportunity to practice using our systemic practice model to deliver high quality care and support to promote positive outcomes for the lives of children and families of Warrington.

Our vision and values are focused on working in partnership with other agencies and services to shape a children’s services to be proud of. We are judged a ‘Good’ authority from our most recent Ofsted inspection in 2024 and pride ourselves with putting children at the heart of everything we do.

We provide our staff with the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge through training and professional development with experience of children in need, child protection, court work, children in care and care experienced. You will work within the legislation of the Children Act 1989 and other legislative frameworks to keep children safe and address their needs.

We are looking for people with a can-do attitude and in return, as a valued member you will be fully supported.

The role

These roles will be full-time (37 hours a week) with opportunities in our Children’s Services Social Work Teams. You will undertake the taught element of your degree apprenticeship with the University of Central Lancashire, with a combination of online and in-person learning.

What's needed?

You will already have significant experience in social care, or a related field. You will be skilled in building relationships with children and their families.

You will have excellent communication skills and will be able to work in a way that supports children and their families and work from a strength based practice model. You will have the aptitude to develop skills in assessing needs and risks, as well as planning and reviewing to achieve the best outcomes for children. You will be able to work flexibly and effectively with a range of statutory and community organisations. You will also have good time management and organisational skills.

What we will offer you:

• A supportive workplace for you to grow and develop your career
• A team environment focused on making a difference and working hard to enable children to thrive in a safe environment, to be safe and their needs met.  
• A funded place on the 3-year social work degree apprenticeship programme, starting in January 2025
• A permanent role (subject to your successful completion of the apprenticeship)
• A full induction and introduction to your role
• Excellent training and development opportunities
• Regular monthly reflective supervision
• Support and guidance from a work-based mentor

Benefits

As well as a competitive salary, working for us means you get:

• 26 days annual holiday - raising to 31 after 5 years of service (pro-rata)
• Access to our attractive and competitive benefits package
• Access to our Health & Wellbeing Programme
• Flexible working

Key Dates & Further Information

For more information contact: Sharon Dixon, Principal Social Worker Woods, at socialworktraining@warrington.gov.uk

Please ensure you have agreement from your Service Manager before applying for this internal vacancy.

We look forward to receiving your application.

The ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.

DBS clearance is required.

Warrington Borough Council is a Disability Confident employer