Children's Social Work Apprentice
- Exeter, North Devon, South Hams
- Full Time
- £26,824 - £28,598 p.a
Are you interested in starting a career as a Social Worker? Dedicated to making a difference? and have a passion for improving the lives of Children in Devon?
If so, we have an excellent opportunity for you!
We are looking for three enthusiastic individuals to join us as Social Work Apprentices, one within each of our Children Services Localities, starting in October 2026.
Role 1 – Exeter & East Devon based at County Hall, Exeter
Role 2 – South & West Devon based at Follaton House, Totnes
Role 3 - North & Mid Devon based at Taw View, Barnstaple
Each locality supports a variety of Children Social Care Services and therefore you will have the opportunity to access a wide range of learning opportunities within the programme.
This is a fantastic opportunity to achieve a degree in Social Work whilst gaining ‘on the job’ experience to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a qualified Social Worker.
We are looking for applicants who:
- Are able to evidence suitable academic ability i.e., GCSE Maths and English (Grade A-C or 9-4) or equivalent. Please note, to enrol onto the programme you must provide original certificates to evidence these qualifications at interview stage.
- Have direct and varied work experience with children and families and have the potential to take on the challenges and responsibility of a qualified Social Worker.
- Are keen to learn and motivated to succeed.
- Are willing to provide excellent service to the people of Devon.
This Apprenticeship is offered on a Fixed Term basis for 3.5 years.
After successful completion of the Apprenticeship you will gain a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Work (England) which will enable you to apply for registration as a Social Worker with the regulatory body Social Work England. After which you will be supported to apply for progression to a Newly Qualified Social Worker role.
The Apprenticeship course is run by the Open University, please see link below which gives you an overview of the programme to enable you to make an informed decision on whether this is the right programme for you.
Social Work Apprenticeship - BA (Hons) / Postgraduate Diploma | Open University
Please also refer to the Job Description and Person Specification attached to this advert for further details on the main duties and responsibilities of this role.
Consider both the Person Specification and Professional Capability Framework which requires prospective candidates to demonstrate awareness of social context for social work practice, awareness of self, ability to develop rapport and potential to develop relevant knowledge, skills and values through professional training. For further information on the framework, please follow the link: Point of entry to training | BASW
If you have the ambition, drive and qualities we are looking for, then please apply for our Social Work Apprenticeship Programme today!
Closing date for Applications is Midnight on Wednesday 29th April 2026.
Please note: When sufficient volume of applications have been reached, Devon County Council reserve the right to close this listing earlier than the stated closing date.
Please highlight on your application form:
- The areas of Devon in which you would be looking to work.
- Within the Education, Training and Development section, please state all your qualifications.
(Please note, to be eligible for the Apprenticeship programme you need to have a GCSE Maths & English (Grade A to C or 9–4(, or a certified equivalent).
The shortlisting process will be in two stages managed by Devon County Council and the Open University.
Interviews are due to be held on Wednesday 13th May 2026.
For further information about these opportunities, please contact the Children’s Social Care Recruitment Team: childsc.recruitmentchildrenssocialwork-mailbox@devon.gov.uk
Sponsorship: We are currently unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. As a result, we cannot accept applications from individuals based overseas or from those who may require sponsorship during the 3.5 year programme.
Internal Applicants: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
Additional Information
- This role requires a DBS disclosure.
- This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
- DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
- Happy to Talk Flexible Working The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
REQ009533 - Children's Social Care
Interview Date: 13 May 2026
Click here to see the Job DescriptionJob Details
- OrganisationDevon County Council
- Work LocationExeterNorth DevonSouth Hams
- Work Postcode
Either Exeter, Totnes or Barnstaple
- Reference
REQ009533
- Occupational GroupSocial Care & Health
- Salary Details
£26,824 - £28,598 p.a
- Job TermFixed
- Appointment TypeFull Time
- Hours
37 hours per week
- Closing Date
28/04/2026
- DBS Check Required
Yes