Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Bachelor of Arts with Honours Social Work, Level 5, 2023/24 - Course Handbook
Welcome to the Course
Welcome to our new and returning BA (Hons) Social Work apprentices. This handbook provides you with information that you will need on your course. You should find it helpful when you first start, when you are preparing for assessment and at any time that you need help or advice in connection with your studies here. You will also receive a module handbook for each module you study on your course.
The course team is looking forward to working with you this year and we hope that your time studying with us at Leeds Beckett University is both enjoyable and successful. On behalf of our University and the whole course team we would like to wish you well in your studies.
David Mercer, Course Director and Rebecca O'Keefe, Apprenticeship Tutor (all levels)
Welcome to your course in the School of Health. I am delighted to be able to welcome our new and returning students and apprentices into the 2023/24 academic year.
The year ahead will contain success, challenge, and personal growth for you, and the School's team of dedicated academics, learning officers and administrators are here to help you to achieve your potential.
Our School has a broad range of disciplines, including Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Nursing and Healthcare, Nutrition and Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Psychological Therapies and Mental Health, Safety and Environmental Health, Social and Community Studies and Sports and Exercise Therapy teams. Our academic teams work collaboratively - drawing on each other's expertise to support learning, undertake professional practice and consultancy, and delivery internationally recognised, societally impactful research.
Throughout the year ahead please do take time to let us know what you are enjoying and what you find valuable - but also please let us know if there are things we could do differently to improve your experience through feedback to your Course Director, at the School Forum or through the module evaluation and surveys.
I wish you every success for this academic year!
Dr Duncan Sharp, Dean of School
Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is led by students for students! Their mission is to make your uni life better! Your Student Officer Team is elected by you to lead the Students' Union into the academic year. They represent all Leeds Beckett students and campaign for the changes you want to see in the university and beyond. They do this by representing your interests, giving you the chance to socialise and meet new people, hosting CV-boosting opportunities, and providing advice and support when you need it most. Shape your own experience by submitting your thoughts through your Course Rep, or if you'd like to influence the Students' Union's policy stance on particular issues or share ideas for improving the student experience across the University, submit your ideas on the Have Your Say platform, which is designed to make change happen! Below you'll find information on a few of their services but if you've any questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Silas Ozoya, your Academic Experience Officer, also wanted to say a few words to introduce himself: "Hey There! I'm Silas, your Academic Experience Officer. It's my job to ensure your academic experience at Leeds Beckett is the best it can be! We're a friendly and open-minded bunch at LBSU, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us! I'm looking forward to meeting you very soon!"
Contact LBSU at:
Email: lbsu-welcome@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 812 8400
Website: www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk
- Following the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and advice from the Department for Education, we currently anticipate that no social distancing measures will be in place on campus during the 2023/24 academic year, enabling a normal on-campus experience. Our aim is to ensure that our students experience Leeds Beckett University, our courses, campuses, facilities and services to the fullest extent possible, while maintaining an environment where students and staff feel safe.
- In all cases, the health and safety of students and staff is our priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, the Department for Education and all other recognised government agencies (such as the Office for Students) in full and keep matters under close review at all times. The advice and restrictions may change before and/or during the academic year, either nationally or in response to local conditions and rates of infection and include the need for social distancing measures and other restrictions. Our flexible delivery model allows us to revert to a blended and/or remote delivery model if this becomes necessary. In a worst case scenario it is possible our campuses may need to close.
- In the event that delivery is restricted as a consequence of pandemic restrictions, we will keep you informed of planned changes as they arise, to ensure you are provided with accurate information.
- We will provide general COVID-19 updates to our University community here and more specific updates will be provided by your School.
About Apprenticeships
Your apprenticeship provides a great opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge, at work and at the University, to ensure you are fully competent in your chosen field and enable you to progress in your career.
Successful apprenticeships are built on strong relationships between the apprentice, their employer and the University, in particular the course team. These colleagues are there to support you on your learning journey and you will work closely with them to make sure you get the most out of this exciting experience. Full attendance is mandatory so you must keep your employer and course team fully informed about any matters relating to your attendance, support you might need, concerns you have and any other challenges you come across. We need this information to help keep you on track to complete your apprenticeship successfully and so we can remain compliant with government rules for delivering apprenticeships.
On-the-job training refers to the activities that you undertake during your working role. It is training for the sole purpose of enabling you to perform the work for which you have been employed. Through your on-the-job activities you will have opportunities to apply the learning that you gain through your off-the-job learning, particularly your on-campus days. Your course team will indicate activities that can be classed as on-the-job training, and this will also be reflected in your training plan.
All apprentices spend a significant part of their working time undertaking 'off-the-job' training. If you started your apprenticeship in the academic year 2021/22 or earlier you are required to spend at least 20% of your working time 'off-the-job'. If you started your apprenticeship from academic year 2022/23 onwards you are required to spend at least 6 hours per week of your working time 'off-the-job'.
This time is typically spent in University but it may also include learning activities in your workplace, but outside your normal day-to-day tasks.
You are expected to undertake off-the-job learning throughout the whole year including during university holiday periods when you don't have timetabled activities. Your course team will provide further advice about what is expected.
You will need to keep track of this off-the-job learning through our Aptem system which includes an activity log. If you need further guidance or training on using Aptem, contact your course team or the Apprenticeship Team (apprenticeships@leedsbeckett.ac.uk).
Your training plan is a personalised formal document which provides details of your apprenticeship requirements, including both the on- and off-the-job training that you will undertake. It forms part of the apprenticeship agreement which you, your employer and the University should have agreed signed off before the start of your apprenticeship.
Our University was inspected by Ofsted in November 2022 and was given a rating of good for overall effectiveness and also for each of the thematic areas specified in their Education Inspection Framework (EIF):
- Quality of education
- Behaviour and attitudes
- Personal development
- Leadership and management
Key Contacts & Keeping in Touch
Pastoral Support - academic advisors
During induction week you will be allocated an academic advisor/ personal tutor. Your advisor is your first point of contact and will offer structured tutorials. Your advisor will also be able to see you by appointment. Your advisor can direct you to other sources of advice and support as needed. Tutors are available for academic and personal discussion on both a scheduled and 'drop-in' basis. Tutors also support learners through their practice placements. Where there are concerns, for example around health issues, conduct, suitability or attendance, tutors will offer support and advice and, where necessary convene a progress meeting to discuss the issues or concerns.
Other Support
In addition to academic advisors, additional support is offered via a number of routes:
- The Course Director, David Mercer has an overview of the course as a whole and provides support with University processes and regulations. Your Level/Year tutors facilitate the learner experience and work with personal tutors to ensure learners are supported with their studies. Your Level tutor is the person to contact about any queries or questions about the organisation and delivery of your studies. They will also organise your focus groups and respond to learner feedback in the first instance.
- Module tutors are available to discuss issues about the learning and assessment process for the specific module.
- The Academic Lead for Practice, Paula Beesley, provides information and general support for learners managing their placement and is supported by the Practice Learning team.
- When undertaking practice placements apprentices are supported by a Practice Educator who has undertaken relevant training and is contracted to provide regular supervision for the learner.
- Rebecca O'Keefe is the Apprenticeship Link Tutor. As well as the Level tutor, the Apprenticeship Link Tutor works between the University and your employer in relation to your apprenticeship course journey and liaises with relevant staff.
Your workplace mentor will support you in the workplace by, for example, helping to identify relevant learning opportunities and helping you succeed in these. More details of your workplace mentor and other support options will be listed in your training plan.
Charlotte Benn, c.a.benn@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 3167, Portland Building room 513
Your Course Representatives' details will be provided in class or via MyBeckett.
The Academic Librarians for this course can be contacted at: sohlibrary@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Or complete their online form for help with academic and research skills: Get Help form
Social Work group contacts
Dr Lorraine Agu, Head of Social Work, l.agu@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 4330
Dr David Mercer, Course Director Pre-qualifying courses/ BA Level 5 tutor, d.mercer@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 4310
Rebecca O'Keefe, Senior Lecturer/Apprenticeship Tutor (all levels), r.okeefe@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 2597
Dr Paula Beesley, BA Level 4 tutor / Academic Lead for Practice, p.h.beesley@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 4405
Max Bell, Course Director, maxine.bell@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 9855
Dr Emma Geddes, Senior Lecturer, e.geddes@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 1927
Gill Impey, Course Director, MA Social Work, g.impey@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 2308
Christian Kerr, Lecturer, c.kerr@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Ged McGurn, Lecturer, g.mcgurn@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 9949
Danielle O'Connell, Degree Apprenticeship Assessor, d.oconnell@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 3196
Alice O'Sullivan, Senior Lecturer, a.osullivan@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 7233
Melanie Watts, BA Level 6 tutor, melanie.watts@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 7506
Mark Williams, MA Year 1 tutor, m.p.williams@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 4314
Part-time tutors
Emma Coils
Lisa Hunt
Bronwen Maxwell
Gemma Reilly
Freedom to Speak up Guardian
See details here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/freedom-to-speak-up/
The contact details of other key services, such as The Student Advice Team, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, the Library, Money Advice, Careers, Students' Union Advice Service and Students' Union Student Voice Team can be found on the Students web page.
In addition:
Apprenticeship Assessors - these colleagues are a key contact for you; they will coordinate and complete progress review meetings with you and provide on-going support.
Apprenticeship Team - these colleagues support apprentices, employers and other university staff with the recruitment, application and on-boarding processes; they also ensure apprenticeships run smoothly and are compliant with government rules.
Please see your training plan for contact details.
Academic and administrative staff at our University use your University email address to contact you. It is important that you check this account regularly. You can forward emails from your University email address to a preferred personal email address, however, quarantine and spam filters needed by our University mean that emails sent from external email addresses may be delayed, blocked or deleted. It is therefore important that your University email address is the only email address that you use to contact University staff. Information on how to access your University email address can be found on the Library IT Support page: http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/office365/outlook
Please make sure that you inform your Course Administration team whenever you change your address and contact details. It is important that you also update your records yourself. You can do this via the My Account/Update my Data tab on MyBeckett. This will ensure we can always contact you in an emergency, and that you receive any important University communications that we may need to send you.
We will inform you of class activities and course notifications, including any cancellations via My Beckett email announcements. For each module, the Module Handbook will include the preferred method of communicating general information about that module to you.
Absence reporting
If you are absent from a session, please inform the Course Administrator by email prior to the session and they will inform the relevant module leader and tutor. You must also inform your employer.
Any absences will need to be discussed with your tutor and evidence/discussion concerning the work you have undertaken relating to work missed.
Reporting absences for placements
See details in your Placement Handbook. The absence reporting web page is here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/absence-reporting/
MS Teams is part of the Office 365 suite used by staff, students and apprentices for communication and collaboration:
- Access via MyBeckett on University devices as well as on personal mobiles via a free downloadable app.
- Participate in online meetings and video conferencing in groups or one-to-one.
- Work on shared content, ideas, projects and online learning.
- Utilise breakout rooms to create more dynamic sessions
Further information is available on the Library's MS Teams FAQ web page.
Timetable Information
The University’s standard term dates are available on our Academic Calendars web page for information.
You will be able to access your timetable through Aptem.
Taught sessions will normally be scheduled and included in your timetable. This will include on-campus sessions that you should attend. Depending on your apprenticeship, this may also include scheduled online teaching and learning sessions that you need to take part in. Module information will be made available online by the school for enrolled apprentices. Timetables will also be made available via:
- The Student Portal (MyBeckett)
- The Leeds Beckett app
You should discuss any difficulties relating to your engagement with timetabled sessions with your Course Director.
School Forums, where students and apprentices raise feedback on their academic experience, are scheduled into all students’ and apprentices' timetables. Any apprentice can attend but only Course Reps are expected to be in attendance.
Course Overview
We have designed a course that is generic in preparing newly qualified social workers to work with both children and adult social service users, yet also allows apprentices to develop specialisms in relation to an area of practice towards the end of their studies. We seek to develop professionals who can draw upon evidence informed research to use appropriately to monitor and assess both the effectiveness of their practice and the delivery of social work in an inter-professional context.
In developing the course the course team has been aware of its obligation to provide a unique knowledge and skill base in social work recognising the demands and requirements of the external bodies and professional requirements. Every aspect of the curriculum is informed by the Professional Capabilities Framework, which enables holistic assessment of apprentices' progress from the admissions process through to qualifying level and encourages a lifelong learning approach and a commitment to continuing professional education.
The course offers a programme of applied and blended learning which supports the development of a diverse range of learners. The course also aims to develop confident and resilient professionals who are able to take on the further challenges of the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment, the employer-led programme of support and assessment for new social workers.
As an apprentice you will be working towards achievement of the required knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) for your specific apprenticeship. However, through achieving the apprenticeship KSBs you will also meet the requirements of a Leeds Beckett qualification, normally an honours or Masters degree. These qualifications have defined Course Learning Outcomes which are statements about what you will be able to do at the end of the qualification. The Course Learning Outcomes of your qualification have been provided below for information.
- Demonstrate the ability to critically apply evidence based knowledge, theory and skills to inform competent social work practice.
- Demonstrate the ability to be accountable for the management and development of self as a professional practitioner.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the impact of organisational context and change on effective social work practice.
- Apply critical reflection and analysis in order to provide solutions to problems in practice.
- Apply global principles of human rights and citizenship principles to demonstrate best practice in working with a diverse range of service user groups.
- Transfer a range of generic skills to the positive development of effective and independent social work practice.
Level 5 develops the apprentices' competence for professional practice with a focus on the application of theory to practice and development of core skills of assessment and risk management, planning, intervention and evaluation with a range of service user groups and to work with other health and social care professionals. By the end of the level, apprentices will be able to:
- Apply a range of social science and legal and policy knowledge to assess risk with a range of service user groups.
- Choose and justify relevant methods of intervention for effective and enterprising social work practice to promote social inclusivity and citizenship.
- Demonstrate an enquiring, problem solving and reflective approach to study and weigh competing perspectives relating to more complex situations within social work practice.
- Demonstrate the ability to develop verbal and written communication in a clear and concise way appropriate to the situational context.
- Use reflective and reflexive skills to evaluate how personal identity interacts with professional and organisational identity.
- Apply interpersonal, academic and digital literacy skills relevant to the study and practice of social work.
During your apprenticeship you will develop Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) that have been identified by employers and subject experts across the country as being essential in ensuring you are fully competent in your specialised role. These KSBs are built into the modules you will study as part of the apprenticeship and will be developed through a range of learning activities at work and at University.
The apprenticeship's learning outcomes listed above collectively reflect the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become a competent social worker as defined by the sector in the Apprenticeship Standard and Social Work England's Standards.
The details of the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours are in the apprenticeship standard:
https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/social-worker-integrated-degree-v1-1
Assessment & Feedback
Level 4 is assessed mainly by coursework with practical assessments.
Level 5 is assessed mainly by coursework with practical assessments and an examination (timed online assessment).
Level 6 is assessed mainly by coursework with practical assessments.
Placement experiences are assessed.
The apprenticeship has a fully integrated End-Point Assessment - see the EPA section for details.
All Apprentices are required to complete an End Point Assessment (EPA) before they can successfully pass the apprenticeship. Course teams will support and prepare you for your EPA throughout the apprenticeship. Before an Apprentice can attempt the EPA they must satisfy a number of criteria, which are referred to as Gateway Requirements. Once they have met the Gateway requirements, the Apprentice undertakes the EPA which is designed to test/confirm the Apprentice's KSBs and their overall competency.
EPAs will be conducted by an outside organisation (EPAO) or by someone within the University who has not been involved in the delivery of the apprenticeship.
The Apprenticeship grade will normally be based on the EPA, for example, if you achieve a Pass in the EPA you will be awarded a Pass in the Apprenticeship.
There are a wide range of EPA requirements across all of the apprenticeships and therefore the details below provide more information about your specific EPA. You are advised to contact your Course Director with any questions relating to the EPA.
Your Social Worker apprenticeship End-Point Assessment
The EPA for this apprenticeship is now a 'fully statutory' integrated EPA. This means the EPA in your programme uses the same module and assessment pathway as the standard entry route for Social Work. Each module and module assessment supports the learning of the apprentices against the KSBs as outlined in each module handbook. The EPA gateway is achieved by the end of level 6 when:
-The apprentice has met the knowledge, skills and behaviours of the Social Worker standard.
-The employer and the University are satisfied the apprentice has consistently demonstrated they meet the KSBs of the occupational standard.
-Achieved English and mathematics at Level 2 (prior to joining the apprenticeship).
-Achieved all required modules from BA (Hons) degree in Social Work approved by Social Work England.
-Successfully completed supervised practice in at least two contrasting settings, one with a focus on statutory work, and knows why these were completed.
-Successfully completed and documented 200 days in supervised practice learning; up to 30 of these days can be allocated to apprentices developing their skills for practice, also known as 'skills days'.
-Achieved all required modules, taking into account any recognition of prior learning (RPL) of the Social Worker qualification but before the University's Examination Board.
At level 6, the development of a range of skills mapped against the KSBs culminates in the apprentice completing all relevant modules and entering the EPA gateway through the Exam Board process. The EPA starts with the examination board process and concludes with awarding the apprentice and subsequent notification to the regulator, Social Work England, of this decision.
Full details are provided in the End-Point Assessment plan in the apprenticeship standard here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/social-worker-integrated-degree-v1-1
Please note the exam/assessment periods in the academic calendar and make sure that you are available during those periods. Further details of your schedule of examinations can be found on your timetable once the examination schedule is released. Coursework submission deadlines can normally be found on MyBeckett or in individual Module Handbooks/other module guides.
Disabled students requiring adjustments to assessments/examinations should contact Disability Advice as soon as possible. We can only guarantee that adjustments can be put in place if students have contacted us by the following deadlines:
Semester 1 - 10th November 2023
Semester 2 - 8th March 2024
Contact us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
It is important for your progression and achievement that you submit all work for all assignments in a timely manner. It is also important that you keep copies of all work submitted until after you have graduated. You should also keep any receipts confirming the submission of assignments. In the event of your submitted work being lost you may be required to produce a copy of the work and submission receipt. If you are unable to do so, your work will not be marked.
It is important to note that submitting all assignments is a requirement of your course. Should you experience extenuating circumstances which prevent you from submitting on time please make yourself aware of the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances process. Without any form of extenuating circumstances, standard penalties apply for late submission of assessed work. Full details of the penalties for late submission of course work are available in section 3 of the Academic Regulations at https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-university/public-information/academic-regulations/
If you have been recommended 'flexibility around deadlines' as a reasonable adjustment in a Reasonable Adjustment Plan, your Course Administrator will be able to advise you of the process.
You will be required to submit your written work via Turnitin and information on Turnitin is available here: https://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/mybeckett/turnitin
Assessed work will normally be returned with appropriate feedback within four weeks of your submission. There is sometimes a perceived delay between submitting an assessment and receiving feedback, as work has to be marked and moderated, before feedback can be given, but this will normally be within the standard four weeks return period. Each Module Handbook will provide you with specific guidelines on how and when you will receive feedback on your assessments.
Formative assessment is integrated throughout the modules on the course. Some modules have skills based sessions in the communication skills suites allowing tutors and peers to provide learners with instant feedback on their skills and application of knowledge. Formative feedback is also provided through class activities, such as presentations, debates and discussions, online discussion boards and through group activities. Apprentices are required to submit regular reflections to their e-portfolios at each level and the ongoing development of reflective skills is facilitated through regular feedback from the personal tutor. The instructional design of experiential learning activities has been carefully managed to provide immediate feedback to apprentices and offer opportunities for remediation and development.
For summative assessments, apprentices receive feedback relating to their assignment aligned to the learning outcomes for the modules. At the beginning of levels 5 and 6, apprentices meet with their tutor to set out their learning needs for that academic year. Exemplars and model answers, particularly from practice learning, are used in some modules to provide generic feedback.
Results from module assessments and decisions on progression to the next level of study (e.g., from level 4 to level 5 of an undergraduate degree) or awards (if you are in the final level) are available on the Results Online system: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/exams-assessments-and-awards/results-online/
Results will appear on Results Online within five working days from the date of the Progression and Award Board meeting (the meeting where your end of level outcome will be decided) or the Module Board meeting (the meeting where modular outcomes are decided).
If you are unsure about when you might receive your results or have queries relating to your results, you should contact your Course Administrator.
The University recognises that, from time to time, apprentices may encounter issues which may prevent them from being able to submit or take assessment. Where this is the case, apprentices may be able to submit their 'extenuating circumstances' for consideration. Please see the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances web page for further information.
If you have not passed a module at the first attempt you will be eligible for re-assessment. See your Module Handbook for details of the relevant re-assessment process (e.g., whether it is coursework, an examination, a presentation or other form of assessment/when it will take place/what the deadline is). You will be advised via Results Online of your options for re-assessment. You are advised to contact your module leader or academic advisor for any clarification.
If a placement is failed, please see the information in the Additional or Non-Standard Regulations section below.
Details about our Appeals process can be found on the appeals web page.
Academic integrity means intellectual honesty and is part of good academic practice. Further information can be found on our academic integrity web page.
Teaching & Learning
The off- and on-the-job learning activities work together and collectively enable you to develop the KSBs that are required for you to successfully complete the apprenticeship and determine your competency as a Social Worker. Your employer and course team will offer support and guidance throughout your apprenticeship, providing you with the necessary learning opportunities and helping you to make the connections between the different activities you will undertake and the Apprenticeship Standard.
Examples of on-the-job learning: In your on the job learning through your employment at each level you will be applying learning from University to professional activities. For example, at each level of the apprenticeship, modules relating to social work law and policy will enhance your professional practice as well as developing your understanding of the KSB requirements.
Examples of off-the-job learning: At each level the modules you study will support your personal and professional development as well as your understanding of the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours requirements. Placements at level 5 and 6 are particularly important in relation to applying learning to Behaviours e.g., through B1 and developing your communication skills through placements. Understanding of the social work role and context is developed through all levels and relates to KSB requirements.
Through your apprenticeship journey to becoming a competent practitioner you will be provided with a range of opportunities to develop your confidence and resilience, to recognise the value of diversity and inclusivity in society, and in your profession, and to prepare you for further learning/ training/ employment following your apprenticeship.
British Values are taught and related to social work values in a number of modules (e.g., Understanding Social Work, Personal and Professional Development, Diversity and Practice Placement 1 and Practice Placement 2). This ensures that at each level of your learning journey your values develop to support your personal and professional development.
Additionally, the University and your employer will ensure that you have a safe learning experience and are supported in terms of your wellbeing, online safety and understanding of the Prevent Duty (protecting individuals from radicalisation); more information on these safeguarding matters is discussed in induction and through a number of modules as illustrated. You will have the opportunity to raise any concerns to your employer or the academic team informally and formally.
All modules are core and 20 credits except where noted below
Level 4 modules
Personal and Professional Development 40 credits
Social Work and the Life Course
Understanding Law in Social Work
Understanding Social Work
Working with Diversity
Level 5 modules - indicative delivery
Semester 1
Contemporary Challenges for Social Work Practice
Social Work with Adults
Social Work with Children and Young People
Semester 2
Models of Intervention
Practice Placement 1 40 credits
Level 6 modules
Social Work Law for Qualifying Practice
Social Work in the Global Context 40 credits
Critical Thinking for Social Work
Practice Placement 2 40 credits
A standard 20 credit module equates to 200 notional learning hours, comprising teaching, learning and assessment, embedded placement activities and independent study. The notional hours for the course have been exceeded due to the placement hours requirement.
Overall workload in hours | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
Teaching and Learning | 223 | 169 | 162 |
Independent Study and Assessment | 862 | 696 | 886 |
Placement and placement activities | 115 | 525 | 750 |
Total | 1200 | 1390 | 1798 |
We are committed to providing a safe environment for our degree apprentices. We work with employers to ensure that you have a safe learning experience as set out in 'Keeping Our Apprentices Safe'. This includes information on how to identify and report concerns and access support covering safeguarding, wellbeing, online safety, the Prevent Duty (preventing individuals from being drawn into terrorism) and British Values.
In our University there is no place for bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct which includes sexual violence. We encourage any member of our community who has experienced any of these forms of unacceptable behaviour to use our Support, Report, Respect tool to access advice and raise concerns, which can be done anonymously.
Not sure who to contact? Speak to Student Advice: 0113 812 3000 or email studentadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk. They will listen and assess your concerns, offer information and advice, and refer to specialist support as required.
An understanding of British values is embedded in the apprenticeship curriculum.
British values are defined as:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect and tolerance
In line with these values, we will foster a culture where values, opinions and beliefs can be shared in the knowledge that they will be respected.
Fundamental British Values are taught and related to social work values in a number of modules (e.g., Understanding Social Work, Personal and Professional Development, Diversity and Practice Placement 1 and Practice Placement 2). Values and ethics are integral to social work practice and are mapped to professional standards as well as the KSB requirements, e.g., PCF Domain 2 is about Values and Ethics. Apprentices are encouraged through the curriculum to reflect on the interface between personal and professional values in the social work role and context.
Details of School academic staff can be found on the School of Health Website.
Attendance & Absence
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you cannot attend a class, and in this instance you must contact your School office and employer to let them know. Depending upon the reasons why you are unable to attend, and how long this might be for, arrangements will be put in place to ensure you can catch up on your missed learning. The School and your employer will work together to support you with this.
Our most important aim is to support your studies, but we are also required to report attendance to various external bodies such as the Student Loan Company, the Home Office and the Apprenticeship funding body, the Education and Skills Finding Agency (ESFA).
You must notify your Course Administrator if you are absent (for example for an interview, emergency unforeseen circumstances, or for compassionate leave). If you are going to apply for mitigation you will need to provide written evidence of the reason for your absence.
Please note that if your apprenticeship carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional apprenticeship-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
You are advised to review your commitment statement or training plan to ensure you are clear on who to contact in your employment organisation and University if you will be absent.
If you are unable to study because of illness for more than 14 consecutive days (including weekends), you must provide us with a Fit Note.
You can send a digital copy of your Fit Note to your Course Administrator, and then send the original by post.
If you are absent through illness on the day of an examination or assignment deadline and you intend to apply for mitigation, you must also provide us with details as possible. Your submission for mitigation may be made online and the circumstances surrounding it may be self-certified unless your period of absence is prolonged. Generally, all absences of 2 weeks or more will require the submission of verifiable documentary evidence.
For more information on 'fit to sit' and mitigation please visit our Mitigation web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
Campus-based apprentices who suspect they may have, or have been diagnosed as having a serious infectious disease such as coronavirus, Mumps, TB, measles, meningitis or chicken pox should not attend campus. For notifiable diseases, students should notify their Course Director or Course Administrator as soon as possible giving information regarding which groups of students or apprentices (and/or colleagues and clients on placements) you have been in contact with and when. For some diseases, such as TB and meningitis, your doctor and our Student Wellbeing Team have a responsibility to notify the West Yorkshire Public Health Protection Team who may also wish to speak to you (or your family) to determine if others require screening or medication. You should follow advice given by the hospital or your GP about when it is safe to return to University. Further information is available on the Student Wellbeing web page.
For guidance on what to do if you have symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus), please visit our Covid-19 web page.
You are advised to review your Commitment Statement to ensure you are clear on who to contact in your employment organisation and University if you will be absent due to illness.
You must let your Apprenticeship Assessor know immediately if your employment status changes. This includes, for example:
- Redundancy
- Change in job role
- Change in employer
- Change in contracted hours
- Parental leave
- Other break in learning
Professional Accreditation or Recognition Associated with the Course
Social Work England
Social Work England's web link for learners: https://www.socialworkengland.org.uk/education-training/students-and-graduates/
This course is approved by Social Work England. Successful completion of the course provides eligibility to apply for registration and to practise as a social worker in England.
Conduct
It is important to behave in a professional manner both within and outside University. This includes use of social media, communications with staff and learners, behaviour within the classroom or within online activities and in negotiating difficulties or problems while on the course. Tutors will monitor professionalism and address any concerns raised.
'In Year' Work Placement Information
Apprentices are required to complete assessed practice in levels 5 and 6 (years 2 and 3) of the course.
At level 4, apprentices further develop their social care experience through undertaking a new piece of work in their employment (100 hours).
Level 5 placement - 70 days
Level 6 placement - 100 days
Level 5 placement: normally with local authorities or health and social care organisations that undertake statutory social work tasks
Level 6 placement: within a statutory context
Reporting absences for placements
See details in your Placement Handbook. The absence reporting web page is here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/absence-reporting/
Skills, Employability & Graduate Opportunities
Through involvement in the course apprentices experience, develop and/or are assessed in a range of work-related transferable skills:
- Technical skills, using technology rich environments for academic study and personal and professional development
- Organisation and planning
- Group/interpersonal skills within the course cohort and with wider groups of professionals and service users and carers through, e.g., inter-professional learning workshops
- Data collection and interpretation
- Theory and principles
- Analysis and reflection
- Application and reflection
- Synthesis and evaluation
- Creativity: apprentices are encouraged to apply theories and processes creatively to solve problems and create enterprising solutions
- Report writing
You will have opportunities to gain recognition during your time at Leeds Beckett University for the extra activities you do in addition to your studies, including volunteering, student societies, playing in our University sports teams and being a Course Representative.
By joining a society with Leeds Beckett Students' Union, you can make new friends, have fun, try something new and enhance your CV - societies provide a great opportunity to learn new skills and improve your existing ones. It can be difficult to get to know new people at university but don't worry, everyone is in the same boat! Our Leeds Beckett Students' Union believe that joining a student-led society is the best way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. There are so many societies out there - from course-based to hobby-based to religious to political and campaigning. Whether you're just starting out at Leeds Beckett or working on your last year of study, it is never too late to find the right society for you - or start one yourself!
Course-based societies are a great way to meet people on your course, expand your networks and celebrate your achievements together such as end of year Society Balls. If you have a great idea for a society, we can help you get it up and running. There are resources and support available for all societies - including funding to help make your society goals a reality. For more information on starting your own society, visit: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/societies/create.
Graduate attributes: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/academic-skills-and-advice/graduate-attributes/
There are three Graduate Attributes for Leeds Beckett University and these are tailored to suit your course. The three attributes you should achieve by the end of the course are for you to be digitally literate, have a global outlook and for you to be enterprising. Learning about these attributes and being assessed on these as part of your modules will provide you with capabilities for your future career and wider life as you move on from your studies here. Where appropriate these attributes have been embedded into modules and across levels of the course and are identified in individual module handbooks.
Digital Literacy
At level 4, apprentices are encouraged to develop basic research and presentation skills and learn about their professional responsibilities in using ICT sources, including social media. Throughout the course, communication skills are developed and assessed through simulated learning and feedback. This involves using a specialist suite to deepen and develop communication skills through role play and other recorded activities. In the Practice Placements modules, apprentices use e-portfolios to demonstrate evidence of application of theory to practice and reflection on own learning and values. Throughout practice placements, apprentices are required to demonstrate evidence of proficiency in using online assessment systems, assessment and risk management tools and case recording as well as being able to use digital literacy to work with other professionals and gather relevant information from service users, families and carers. In a number of level 5 modules apprentices engage with a range of databases sources of evidence. At level 6, apprentices are required to use databases and search engines to find appropriate evidence to support their independent learning and problem-solving abilities in all modules. They continue to use an e-portfolio in the Practice Placement 2 module to demonstrate the professional capabilities, transferable skills and graduate attributes necessary for registration and employment in social work practice.
Enterprise
Throughout the course, apprentices are provided with opportunities to progressively develop entrepreneurial skills and behaviours such as self-confidence, effective networking, autonomy and self-management, creativity and problem solving, negotiation and intuitive decision-making. At level 4 apprentices engage with a range of learning activities and assessments to develop the transferable skills of self-management, autonomous and effective learning strategies and team working skills, as well as working on individual and group tasks to develop problem-solving skills and propose creative solutions to problems. These skills are further developed at level 5, through the Practice Placement 1 module, with an emphasis on decision making in practice and advanced communication skills such as negotiation and managing challenging situations. At level 6, creativity, self-management and problem solving is encouraged through the Social Work in a Global Context and the Practice Placement modules. In addition, inter-professional learning focuses on team working skills and culminates in multi-disciplinary problem-solving exercises at level 6. Readiness for employment is developed throughout the course, principally in the Practice Placement modules, but is also developed through authentic assessments, such as observational exercises and assessments, interviews and presentations, report writing and court skills exercises.
Global Outlook
Social work practice is underpinned by global principles of human rights, citizenship and social justice and these key values are embedded throughout the course. At level 4, the Working with Diversity module introduces concepts about cultural diversity and key social work values are explored in the Understanding Social Work module. At level 5, comparative models of intervention are explored in the Models of Intervention module and principles of human rights, social justice, citizenship and cultural diversity are explored in relation to a range of service user groups in Children and Young People, Social Work with Adults and Contemporary Challenges for Social Work modules. At level 6, the Social Work in the Global Context module explores the impact of globalisation on social work practice and through an extended case study method, learners can link the micro social policy that shapes contemporary UK social work practice to macro global forces such as inequality, migration and political economy.
Level 4
Apprentices are expected to enhance their social care experience within level 4. Apprentices are given advice and support from academic staff about linking what they are learning at University to their social care experience. This work related activity also supports their readiness for practice assessment, by encouraging the development of their communication skills and developing professional identity and confidence. Skills development days throughout the levels also provide a targeted way of integrating theory to practice and focusing on particular issues for professional development.
Level 5
The first placement of 70 days supports apprentices' development further in relation to integrating theory to practice. By the end of the first placement learners are able to apply skills, knowledge and values to predominantly less complex situations within the practice context. The assessment of practice is guided by professional requirements in understanding developing competence within practice settings. Throughout their placement, apprentices are supported by a practice educator and/or a work based supervisor depending on the individual placement setting. At the end of the first placement, apprentices are also assessed as to their readiness for undertaking a more challenging second placement within a statutory context. The Skills Development programme within level 5 assists with developing professional skills to enable transition to the final placement.
Level 6
The second placement of 100 days enables apprentices to become autonomous practitioners who are able to meet the challenges of qualified practice within a complex and evolving social work and social care economy. Apprentices are assessed in the final placement within a statutory context. Apprentices are expected to be able to work independently within more complex practice situations, while still seeking appropriate support and supervision. For example, apprentices are expected by the end of final placement to be able to deal with other professionals autonomously and be able to present written and verbal information to a qualifying standard commensurate with the PCF. Throughout their placement, apprentices are supported by a practice educator.
With your theoretical knowledge combined with your placement experience, you will be able to start practising as a social worker straightaway after registration. Successful completion of the course will enable you to apply for registration as a social worker. You could also access a range of other careers, such as mental health practitioner, drug practitioner or community worker. Roles undertaken by graduates include social workers, community development workers and probation officers.
The University also provides post-qualifying training and education. This promotes the continued professional development of our alumni, many of whom return to work with us in partnership as Practice Educators for the new generation of social work learners.
Learning Support
If you have a question or a problem relating to your apprenticeship, your Course Administrator is there to help you. Course Administrators work closely with academic staff and can make referrals to teaching staff or to specialist professional services as appropriate. They can give you a confirmation of attendance letter, and a transcript. You may also like to contact your Course Rep or the Students' Union Advice team for additional support with apprenticeship-related questions.
Your Academic Advisor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your apprenticeship. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your Academic Advisor at the beginning of each year, usually in your apprenticeship induction. Further details on the role of your Academic Advisor are available on the Academic Advisor web page.
If you need support, but you're not sure where to go, your Student Advice Team are here to help. The team are an essential part of your Student Support Network and are dedicated to ensuring you can access the advice and support you need, when you need it most.
Student Advice can also help in the practical elements of university. The team will produce your first campus card and assist you in replacing your campus card if needed throughout your time at Leeds Beckett. They can provide Confirmation of Enrolment and Bank Letters for our current students and full or partial transcripts for our graduates and fully enrolled students.
If you need help with more complex queries or concerns, our trained Student Life Advisers offer 1-1 appointments, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk about your circumstances and identify support that you can access both within and outside of the university.
To contact the team, or to arrange an appointment, visit The Student Advice webpage for full details.
The Student Voice & Insight team at LBSU works alongside the elected Academic Experience Officer to effectively represent students' and apprentices' academic interests.
We provide support, training and ongoing development to over 1,000 Course Representatives, Postgraduate Research Reps, Student Community Leaders and Global Majority Student Ambassadors who represent you whilst you study at Leeds Beckett; and facilitate the collection of student and apprentice feedback on your academic experience.
Unsure who your Course Rep is? Maybe you're interested in becoming a Course Rep or have feedback about your academic experience? Get in touch at:
- Email: studentvoice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
- Telephone: 0113 812 8400
- Website: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/your-voice
You can find information and resources online through the Support and Opportunities tabs in MyBeckett. In the Support tab, you can find details of a range of services that provide academic and personal support. These include Student Advice, Library Services, the Students' Union, Student Money, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, Student Immigration Advice and Compliance and Accommodation. There is also an A-Z of Support Services, and access to online appointments/registration.
In the Opportunities tab, you can explore the options you have for jobs, work placements, volunteering, and a wide range of other opportunities. For example, you can find out here how to get help with your CV, prepare for an interview, get a part-time job or a voluntary role, take part in an international project, or join societies closer to home.
If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difference, we believe this should never be a barrier to studying at our University.
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can ensure everything is in place before your apprenticeship starts.
What should I do next?
- We will ask you to provide evidence of your disability, usually from a health professional or educational psychologist. Don't worry if you haven't got any, we can support you with this.
- Usually, we will arrange an appointment with your Disability Adviser to discuss any adjustments you might need and support you in applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).
- We will work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are available so you can fully participate on your apprenticeship.
Please watch this short video about how the Disability Advice Team can work with you.
Disabled students and apprentices can also access the Disability Resource Areas in each library and the support provided by the Library Learning Support Officer. More information is available on the Library website.
What is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
DSA is government funding to help with the cost of any additional support you might need while studying, such as: one-to-one support, specialist equipment (including useful software) and travel. For more information visit our website.
Contact Us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
The Library
The Library offers 24/7 support for your studies. You can access thousands of resources via MyBeckett or the Library website which also provides full details of all our services.
Library Academic Support
The Library Academic Support Team can help you develop your academic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing and analysing data, and research skills such as how to find, use and evaluate information for your studies. The team liaises with your lecturers to provide the information resources you need for your subject and to arrange academic skills sessions to support you in your studies.
The team maintains a number of websites and modules to support your learning:
- In your Subject guide, you'll find a variety of information resources which have been selected as a good starting point for research in that area. These are available on the Skills and Subject Support web page or via My Beckett.
- On the Skills for Learning website, you'll find online resources covering topics such as essay writing, research and time management, English Language and academic English plus information to help you reference and avoid plagiarism, alongside details of workshops that are designed to help you succeed in your assessments. The Skills for Learning website can be found on the Library website or via My Beckett.
- LBU Study Smart is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to the key skills and services you'll need to study successfully at Leeds Beckett. There are also additional modules you can take as you move through your course to help you transition between study levels. The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
- The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
Library and Student IT Advice Service
The Library and Student IT Advice Service team can answer your queries on borrowing, finding information, passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA) ,Office 365, online meetings, saving your work, MyBeckett and more:
- online (including 24/7 chat) via the Contact Us web page
- by phone - 0113 812 1000 (24/7 IT support)
- face-to-face in either of our Libraries, check Library opening times for details of when staff are available
They also have a wide range of short tutorials available on the Library's YouTube channel.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi on the University campus is provided by eduroam, a secure wireless network, which also allows you Wi-Fi access if you visit other universities. To connect:
- Select eduroam from available Wi-Fi
- Your login details are:
Username followed by @leedsbeckett: e.g. c1234567@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Password: your normal university password
*Android Users: Select under Phase 2 Authentication - MS-CHAPv2
Help is available on the Library's Wi-Fi web page.
Microsoft Office 365
You are provided with free access to Office 365 and the latest version of Office can be downloaded from the IT tab in MyBeckett or from office.com. All apprentices who are registered for a qualification at Leeds Beckett University are eligible and you can use the subscription for the duration of your apprenticeship. For instructions and more information, please see the Office 365 support page.
OneDrive
OneDrive Leeds Beckett is your individual file storage with 1TB of storage space. With OneDrive you can access and share your files across your devices. This is accessible on University PCs and off-campus through Office 365 portal. See the Saving your Work pages on the Library website for more information.
Leeds Beckett RemoteApp
The Leeds Beckett RemoteApp gives you access to a range of specialist software for your course on your personal devices. See the RemoteApp page on the Library website for more information.
Media Equipment - free loans
You can borrow high-end Media Equipment for free. Browse, reserve and collect equipment ranging from GoPros to Remote Presenters from the ground floor of the Shelia Silver and Headingley Libraries. Further information is available on the Media Equipment web page.
University life can have its ups and downs, and occasionally you may find yourself in need of advice. That's where we come in. Here at the SU we have a free advice service that is here just for you, the students and apprentices at Leeds Beckett University.
The Advice Service at LBSU is a confidential, non-judgmental service run by professional advisers.
The service is independent from the University, so if you are having any problems with your apprenticeship you can talk confidentially with us - although we do work with the University to find the best solutions, we would only contact them with your permission. We can advise on a range of topics including all aspects of the University Regulations and Procedures, housing issues and finance issues. We can guide you through any processes or procedures.
We're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have while you are studying at Leeds Beckett.
Get more information at www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice.
Resources
MyBeckett, the portal and virtual learning environment provides:
- access to your modules and timetables;
- your reading lists and email account;
- your personal storage area on our University IT servers;
- information on where to look for academic or personal support (Support tab);
- information on opportunities such as jobs, careers, part-time work, placements and volunteering (Opportunities tab)
- access to Library and student IT advice
Further information and support for using MyBeckett can be found on the MyBeckett Support Pages.
The physical and online resources available for this course include classroom and lecture facilities with PC and smartboard facilities; social learning spaces with individual tutorial rooms; and the online learning repository 'MyBeckett' which contains lectures, notices, assignment submission facilities.
Throughout the course, experiential learning through role play involving practitioners and actors is part of the development of communication skills. Specialist suites are used for this work within the University.
Practice placements are a vital part of the course.
Student Voice
We are committed to working in partnership with you and the Students' Union to provide you with an inclusive, safe and engaging learning environment which is conducive to study for all our students, apprentices and our staff. An important element of your time studying with us is your engagement in developing your learning. Your engagement and attendance on your apprenticeship enables you to further your learning and supports your achievement, apprenticeship completion and aspirations for the future. There is an expectation that apprentices will attend, engage in their learning and submit on time for assessment. We provide support for you to maximise your time studying with us and to develop your learning, skills and abilities to support you in your chosen career path.
We seek active participation by all our apprentices in the continuous enhancement of our apprenticeships and through our monitoring, annual review and enhancement processes. These are formal processes used by our University for assuring the academic standards and quality of your apprenticeship and its continuous improvement. These processes utilise your feedback, External Examiners' reports, feedback from staff and others, data relating to apprentice outcomes on the apprenticeship and apprentice surveys to reflect on areas of good practice and areas for further enhancement. We invite all apprentices to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your apprenticeship and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student and apprentice surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific apprenticeship or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey. We utilise the outcomes of these surveys to benchmark our apprenticeships nationally and to inform annual apprenticeship enhancements.
Informal feedback is also welcome at any time either via your Academic Advisor or module tutor or via your Course Representative. Our partnership with you enables us together to make the most of your learning experience with us and to enhance the quality and reputation of your apprenticeship. You can find out what actions have been taken in response to your feedback through your Course Representative, the Students' Union, your tutors or through the Library.
Course Representatives (Reps) at undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels are student and apprentice volunteers who represent you in formal and informal meetings with the University, and follow up on actions that have occurred because of student and apprentice feedback. You can become a Course Rep, volunteering to represent the views of your peers in order to improve apprentices' academic experience.
In the first few weeks of your time at Leeds Beckett, your Course Director will facilitate an opportunity to appoint Course Reps on your apprenticeship.
LBSU provides support, training and ongoing development for Course Reps and supports their engagement in enhancement activities throughout the academic year.
Being a Course Rep provides you with an opportunity to enhance your own learning and the development of relevant professional and employability skills alongside your studies. As a Course Rep you would play an important role in:
- Acting as a point of contact and advocate for apprentices on your apprenticeship and in supporting their active engagement.
- Gathering feedback from apprentices on your apprenticeship to inform enhancements to the quality of your apprenticeship and the apprentice experience.
- Facilitating good communication between apprentices and staff on the apprenticeship.
- Working with the Course Director, members of the course team and the Students' Union to enhance your apprenticeship.
- Facilitating and engaging in meetings about your apprenticeship; and
- Being an ambassador for your apprenticeship.
Further information about being a Course Representative is available at:
We invite all apprentices to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your apprenticeship and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student and apprentice surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific apprenticeship or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey.
We are committed to providing a high quality experience for all our students and apprentices. We welcome comments and compliments from apprentices, and find them valuable for on-going improvements to our provision. Comments and compliments about your apprenticeship can be raised with your Course Representative or directly with your Course Director or Academic Advisor.
If you have a specific complaint about an act or omission of our University, you may be able to make a complaint under the Student Complaints Procedure. In the first instance, you should raise the matter as soon as possible with the member of staff most directly concerned, or with the person who can best resolve it. If this does not resolve the matter, or if the complaint is too serious to be addressed in this way, then you should make a formal complaint in writing. Information about how to make a complaint, including the student complaints procedure and a complaints form, is available on the Students web pages.
In addition to the University processes listed above, as an Apprentice, you also have the right to make enquiries or raise concerns outside of the University. Full details of these options can be found in your training plan.
General Information
Diploma of Higher Education Social Studies
Certificate of Higher Education Social Studies
Leeds Beckett University
Social Worker (degree) reference ST0510 with statutory integrated End-Point Assessment
https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/social-worker-integrated-degree-v1-1
The occasional activity may take place at Headingley campus.
Policies, Standards & Regulations
Key University regulations and policies can be accessed on the following web pages:
- Academic Regulations (including assessment regulations) are available on our Academic Regulations web page
- The Student Contract is available on our Student Regulations web page
- The Student Charter is available on our Academic Regulations web page (Section 20)
Other Student regulations and University policies, including Safety, Health and Wellbeing policies, are available on our Student Regulations web page
You should also familiarise yourself with our Zero Tolerance Report and Support web page regarding sexual harassment and assult.
The course follows the University Academic Regulations except where noted below.
Fitness to Practise
The course is authorised to use the University Fitness to Practise Policy. Apprentices are expected to act in a professional manner at all times in line with the Policy: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/-/media/files/policies/student/ups_fitness_to_practise_policy_procedure.pdf
Progression and achievement of the award
All assessments, components of assessment, modules and placements, must be passed for progression to the next level and for the conferment of the award. The course does not allow for compensation or condoning of marks by the Progression and Award Board.
Mitigation
No mitigation is allowed for the practice component.
Contained Awards
The contained awards do not provide eligibility to apply for registration as a social worker.
Placement progression
Placement progression is assessed through the practice settings and professional requirements. The Practice Assessment Examination Committee (PAEC) meets
twice yearly to discuss practice assessments and makes recommendations concerning the progression of apprentices to the Progression and Award Board.
Failing placement
Apprentices normally have only one opportunity to repeat a placement throughout the course. Apprentices who fail two assessed practice learning placements across the whole course will be deemed to have failed the course and a recommendation made to the Progression and Award Board for the apprentice to be withdrawn from the course and be credited with completed modules. This includes apprentices who withdraw from placement following practice concerns and/or an action plan. Apprentices in this situation will be discussed at PAEC and a fail recommendation will normally be suggested.
The University cannot guarantee that a repeat placement can be sourced but will work with partners in the Teaching Partnership to make every reasonable effort to do so. Apprentices who fail or withdraw from placement will complete a Readiness for Practice plan with their tutors, prior to any repeat placement, as outlined below.
Readiness for practice
The Professional Capabilities Framework outlines a number of statements relating to Readiness for Practice for apprentice social workers which impact upon progression as follows:
- Prior to first placement, apprentices are assessed on their communication skills and ability to learn from feedback. The ability of apprentices to apply basic social work knowledge, skills and values will also be assessed through a recorded role play and written reflection.
- Apprentices are also assessed at the end of the first practice placement concerning their readiness to progress to the second practice placement where more complex work will be undertaken.
- Apprentices who have failed or withdrawn from placement must complete a Readiness for Practice Plan as determined by their tutor which will be considered by Practice Assessment Examination Committee (PAEC). Apprentices who fail to undertake or complete a Readiness for Practice Plan will not be offered a further practice placement. All External Examiners are invited to attend the PAEC and it is a requirement that at least one will be available for this meeting.
Attendance
Following the University's Academic Engagement policy and in line with your apprenticeship requirements, apprentices are expected to attend ALL University scheduled sessions and ALL placement days. Attendance and absence are monitored through the personal tutor process and in liaison with the Course Leader and Course Director, and with your employer. Any absences are discussed by tutor and apprentice, who needs to evidence the work subsequently undertaken for any missed learning.
Academic calendar
This apprenticeship follows a non-standard delivery calendar to accommodate placements. There is some flexibility for the timing of placements by negotiation with the employer.
The External Examiner assures that you are assessed fairly in relation to other apprentices on the same apprenticeship and also that the standard of your own award is comparable to similar apprenticeships taken by apprentices in other higher education institutions within the UK. The External Examiner(s) provide an annual report for your apprenticeship. External Examiner reports are available on our External Examiner Reports web page, which is accessible via the Course Information link on the Students home page
Ms Cath Holmström, Keele University
Dr Andrew Mantell, London South Bank University
Mrs Rowena Pyott, University of Lincoln
Appendices
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