Social Work Academy

Our Commitment to Your Professional Development
Join the National Fostering Group’s Social Work Academy to advance your career at any stage. Whether you are a student, newly qualified, or an experienced professional, we offer tailored support to help you succeed.
- For Newly Qualified Social Workers:
Transition smoothly into practice with our comprehensive induction, mentorship, and development programmes.
- For Experienced Professionals:
Further your career with leadership training, specialised workshops, and opportunities to deepen your expertise.


The Learning & Talent Team
At National Fostering Group, we are dedicated to your professional growth through our Learning and Talent Team. Our experienced trainers deliver both classroom and virtual training to equip you with the skills needed for success. Many team members are qualified social workers, bringing valuable real-world insights to our programmes.
For social workers joining our organisation, the team provides essential professional development opportunities. Our training ensures you are well-prepared to manage complex cases, adhere to best practices, and contribute meaningfully to the lives of children and families. This approach promotes both skill enhancement and a sense of belonging within the National Fostering Group.


Our Programmes
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We work with Skills for Care to deliver the ASYE (Assessed and Supported Year in Employment) programme, supporting newly qualified social workers with structured learning, supervision, and reflection to build confidence and skills for effective practice.
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Our "Step Into Social Work" programme, developed in partnership with the Open University, offers a social work degree apprenticeship that integrates academic learning with hands-on experience, preparing you for a successful career.
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We partner with universities across England to train Practice Educators, equipping them to mentor and assess social work students during placements. This role supports the next generation of social workers while enhancing leadership, communication, and reflective practice skills, fostering excellence in the profession.
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This programme identifies and supports the development of future leaders, equipping them for roles such as Registered Managers, Team Managers and Advanced Practitioners.
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This programme empowers social workers to enhance their training and facilitation skills, enabling them to deliver effective core training sessions for foster carers locally.
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In collaboration with Impact Futures, this programme provides ILM-accredited leadership and management qualifications for leaders at all levels.
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Delivered with the DDP Network, this advanced training equips professionals to provide effective therapeutic support to children and families.
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This core approach is at the heart of everything that we do, through our practices, training and support systems. Ensuring that the work we do supports improved outcomes for children and families. We are proud that our programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society.
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The academy offers structured qualifications and mentoring programmes to enhance the skills of our social workers. As well as the ability to effectively support and guide others in their professional development.
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We are proud to offer all colleagues a membership with Research in Practice (RiP). This membership provides evidence-based resources to strengthen professional development and practice.
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Our structured CPD framework for integrating career planning into regular reviews throughout the year, supporting ongoing growth and goal setting.
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Our safeguarding training addresses the unique challenges faced by foster carers and professionals. Delivered by specialists, it provides practical skills and knowledge to protect children and promote their welfare, focusing on real-world scenarios and best practices.
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Our mandatory training provides essential skills and knowledge tailored to your role. It ensures compliance with standards and keeps you updated on best practices, preparing you to meet challenges effectively.
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Our specialist training for social workers, covers trauma-informed practice, complex behaviours, and foster family support. Designed to enhance skills and improve outcomes for children, young people, and carers.
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Our VR training immerses you in realistic scenarios, building practical skills, confidence, and readiness for complex challenges. With immediate feedback, it ensures you're fully prepared for your role.