Where are they now? The characteristics, experiences, journeys and outcomes of social work degree apprentices in England

The Social Work Degree Apprenticeship (SWDA) was launched in England in 2018, and little is currently known about individuals who have taken this route. This paper presents findings from a multi-method study in a single university. Administrative data enabled us to compare the characteristics of the first five cohorts of apprentices with undergraduate students in the same year groups. The characteristics, experiences, journeys and outcomes of three cohorts of apprentices who had graduated were then explored via a survey. Fifteen graduates completed the survey and 8 participants then participated in semi-structured interviews which were designed to add depth to the survey data. The SWDA had a positive impact on the career prospects, personal lives and finances of apprentices. They were able to apply learning from university immediately into their workplace whilst on programme, and upon qualification they progressed quickly, with some already accessing post-graduate training and higher social work roles. However, the findings suggest universities need to ensure they recruit the right apprentices as a high proportion of participants already had degree‑level qualifications and some were employed in higher‑paying roles at the point of entry. There is also a need to recruit a more diverse group of apprentices.