COURSE OVERVIEW

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In our innovative approach, we employ a range of creative techniques, including 'Rehearsal for Real Life' featuring trained actors who recreate realistic scenarios, deep poetry analysis, interactive activities, and guided reflection. This holistic method is designed to provide social work students with a comprehensive understanding of a child's journey within the realm of social work. We explore every aspect, from the initial referral to the critical transition to leaving care, delving into the practical intricacies of the social care process.

 

Throughout the Skills Day, students gain not only a deeper insight into the decision-making process but also explore workflow strategies and learn effective case management techniques. They have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the lived experiences of children, gaining invaluable insights into their distinctive perspectives and challenges. This immersive experience allows students to truly comprehend how pivotal decisions are made, decisions that hold a profound impact on a child's life. We emphasise the significance of making these decisions with knowledge, understanding, and empathy, ensuring that future social workers are equipped with the skills and sensitivity required to make a meaningful and positive difference in the lives of the children they serve."

 

The objectives of this Child-focused Skills Day include:

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1. Thorough Understanding: To furnish social work students with a thorough comprehension of a child's journey in the field of social work, encompassing all phases from referral to the transition to leaving care.

 

2. Practical Insights: To delve into the practical complexities of the social care process, granting students practical insights into best practices for Decision Making, Workflow, and Case Management.

 

3. Innovative Learning: To employ creative techniques, including 'Rehearsal for Real Life,' in-depth poetry analysis, interactive activities, and guided reflection, nurturing innovative and engaging learning experiences.

 

4. Decision-Making Proficiency: To enhance students' understanding of the decision-making process, enabling them to make pivotal decisions with competence and cultural sensitivity.

 

5. Workflow Strategies: To explore workflow strategies, equipping students with effective case management techniques and the skills required for social work practice.

 

6. Embrace Lived Experiences: To encourage students to immerse themselves in the lived experiences of children, fostering a deeper understanding of their unique viewpoints and challenges.

 

7. Empathy and Sensitivity: To underline the significance of making decisions with knowledge, understanding, and empathy, ensuring that future social workers are equipped to make a positive impact on the lives of the children they serve.

 

8. Child-Centred Practice: To advocate for a child-centred approach in social work, where the voices and rights of children are upheld and given precedence.

 

These objectives collectively contribute to the development of proficient and culturally competent social work professionals who are well-prepared to address the needs of children and their families with empathy and expertise.

 

The aims of the "Journey of the Child in the Context of Social Work Day" align with several standards in the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) for Social Workers. 

 

Domain 1: Professionalism

• PCF 1.1: Identify and behave as a professional social worker, committed to professional development.

• PCF 1.2: Understand the value base of social work and use it to inform practice.

 

Domain 2: Values and Ethics

• PCF 2.1: Recognise the fundamental principles of human rights and their implications for practice.

• PCF 2.3: Understand and use the principles of rights, justice, and economic well-being to underpin social work practice.

 

Domain 3: Diversity

•  PCF 3.1: Recognise diversity and apply anti-discriminatory and anti-oppressive principles in practice.

 

Domain 5: Communication

• PCF 5.1: Engage with and actively listen to individuals, carers, and families.

• PCF 5.2: Use effective communication and interpersonal skills in working with individuals, families, and carers.

 

Domain 7: Assessment and Planning

• PCF 7.3: Make and justify decisions, reviewing and reassessing options as necessary, to plan and deliver effective, evidence-based interventions.

 

Domain 8: Intervention and Skills

• PCF 8.1: Use methods and skills appropriate to your practice and development as a social worker.

• PCF 8.2: Apply research and evaluation methods in your practice.

 

Domain 9: Professional Leadership

• PCF 9.1: Provide leadership in your work with individuals, families, carers, and communities.