First graduation pioneering social work programme

Last weekend marked a significant milestone in strengthening Ireland’s social work labour force.

That was the sentiment of Tusla as it celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of its pioneering Social Work Apprenticeship Programme.

32 Tusla apprentices were among 42 graduates conferred with a Master of Social Work at UCC.

The graduates are now eligible to register as social workers and can continue their careers with Tusla, joining frontline services supporting children, young people and families across Ireland at a time of increasing demand for social work services.

Developed in partnership with UCC under the National Apprenticeship Framework, the 24 month programme was designed in response to growing workforce pressures and the need to expand the number of qualified social workers in Ireland.

As the largest employer participating in the programme, Tusla supported the highest number of apprentices throughout their studies.

The apprenticeship provided an alternative pathway into the profession, enabling participants to earn while they learn by remaining fully employed and paid throughout the programme while completing a Master of Social Work through UCC’s bended learning model.

Alongside their academic studies, apprentices gained invaluable practical experience working within frontline social teams across the

country.

Tusla is Ireland’s largest employer of social workers, with approximately 1,470 social workers currently employed across Ireland.

Alongside the 32 apprentices who graduated, an additional 200 Tusla employees are currently undertaking the apprenticeship programme, reflecting Tusla’s continued investment in developing a sustainable pipeline of qualified social workers to meet future service needs.

Tusla CEO Kate Duggan said: “I warmly congratulate our first apprentice graduates on their dedication, hard work and commitment in reaching this important milestone. As an Agency, we have seen first-hand the positive impact of this apprenticeship programme, both for the apprentices, and for our teams across the country.

“As the largest employer of social workers in Ireland, we know and value the vital role our social work professionals play in supporting and protecting children, young people, and families.

“These graduates will further strengthen our services and enhance outcomes for those who rely on our support,” she added.