Newly qualified social workers
We have two main projects supporting newly qualified social workers (NQSWs).
Five-year study
We’ve commissioned a five-year longitudinal study exploring the experiences of NQSWs as they progress in their careers.
The study aims to provide a broad view of NQSW professional development across Scotland. Researchers from Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of Dundee are leading the study. It seeks to capture professional experiences, report on observed practice and trace the professional journey of NQSWs over their first five years to develop a national picture.
The research will consider how NQSWs:
- experience and manage a complex, contested and dynamic professional landscape, in relation to professional roles, tasks, structures and settings
- are supported, trained and developed across diverse practice settings
- identify their ongoing professional development needs as they progress their careers.
To view year two findings click here.
To view year three findings click here.
NQSW supported year
We’re developing recommendations for a national approach to a supported year for NQSWs in Scotland that is viable and sustainable and will provide effective and consistent support to NQSWs.
In phase one, we supported three sites to pilot different approaches with an independent evaluation of the impact and effectiveness of the approaches. The evaluation findings along with additional data and feedback have informed the next phase of the project.
During the next year we will continue to collaborate with partners to fully develop a national approach to a NQSW supported year and a complementary web-based learning resource.
A small-scale early implementation of the approach with identified partners will begin in April 2021, with a view to wider implementation in autumn 2022 if recommendations are accepted by the Scottish Government.
Learning from the NQSW pilots and next steps in developing a supported year.
Evaluation of a Pilot Project for Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSWs) in Scotland.
NQSW continuous professional learning
Find out what continuous professional learning NQSWs must do.
Find out more hereNewly Qualified Social Workers in Scotland: The first five years video
Learning Zone
Find lots of free learning resources to support your learning and development on our Learning Zone.
Continuous professional learning (CPL)
Continuous professional learning (CPL) is about ongoing learning and development.
Everyone on our Register has to meet CPL requirements as part of their registration.
Step into Leadership
Find resources and information to develop your leadership skills on our Step into Leadership website.
