Step 1
Step 1 of Darlington Academy supports non-qualified people to become part of the DBC workforce and access training / qualifications.
Step up to Social Work
Step Up To Social Work (SUSW) is an intensive, 14-month, full-time programme for people who want to become a social worker.
SUSW students get a tax-free bursary during the programme, 170 placement days of hands-on social work in a local authority whilst completing academic learning at a university.
You can find more information about the programme, here.
We will advertise for next year as soon as applications are open, so keep a look out!
Social Work Apprenticeship
Darlington Borough Council currently work with Sunderland University to support staff to become Social Workers via an apprenticeship. In 2022, we are recruiting staff for Cohort 4 to join the 6 Social Work Apprentices already on the programme.
You can find out more from our Social work Apprentices, below:
'What is it like being a Social Work Apprentice in Darlington?' Podcast [external link]
'Diary of a Social Work Apprentice' - Coming Soon
Apprenticeships
An Apprenticeship lets you earn while you learn as you have a job with DBC from the day you start.
Programmes are a combination of practical, on the job training in the workplace, along with college-based learning.
At the end of your Apprenticeship, you’ll have a nationally recognised qualification, great experience and excellent career prospects.
You can find out more information about apprenticeships, and current vacancies, here.
Return to Social Work
The Local Government Association (LGA) and Government Equalities Office collaborated in 2020/21 to deliver Return to Social Work. It helped people with prior knowledge, experience, and skills in social work to return to work following a career break.
More information about the programme and any new programmes will be shared here.
Partner Agencies
Darlington Borough Council are proud to work with a huge number of agencies across Darlington, and the region, to improve the lives of our residents. This can also create learning and employment opportunities.
You can find out more about Developing Darlington Care Collective here, and more information about the Partner Agencies here.
Training and Learning Opportunities
We are keen to offer training and learning opportunities to anyone who is interested in working with people - from children and young people, to families, to adults.
You can find out more about opportunities: