What does a School Social Worker do?
A School Social Worker offers guidance and help to students that are struggling in school. They work with Teachers, parents and Administrators to identify problem areas for a student and create a plan on how to help the student adjust and fix their problems. They maintain accurate case files for these students and provide counselling when necessary. They also work with the school administration to create an overall positive environment for all students within the school.
School Social Worker skills and qualifications
School Social Workers deal with stressful situations and need empathy and active listening skills. A successful School Social Worker candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications such as persistence and dedication to find the root cause of any problems troubling the students and resolve them efficiently. Other skills typically include:
- Compassion and an approachable personality
- General knowledge of sociology and an understanding of culture and society
- The ability to work well with others
- A strong sense of discretion and professionalism
- Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- Flexibility and openness to change
- Excellent listening and verbal communication skills
School Social Worker experience requirements
People employed in the field of social work must have a strong foundation in guidance, giving advice and an understanding of their area’s school system. Some positions require additional training for experience with specific vulnerable groups. Many candidates acquire previous experience as a Social Work Assistant or Support Worker before becoming a qualified School Social Worker.
School Social Worker education and training requirements
Most employers require applicants to have a degree or postgraduate qualification in social work that is approved by Social Work England. Employers also accept candidates with a degree in education if they complete a two-year postgraduate degree in social work because this position deals with schooling and education.
After formal schooling, most candidates complete a social worker degree apprenticeship, which can take up to three years to complete. Many employers find this apprenticeship equivalent to previous job experience. Some candidates complete a work-based training programme for recent graduates called Frontline that specialises in children’s social work. Successful applicants also need to pass enhanced background checks as they will be working with children.
School Social Worker salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a School Social Worker is £43,323 per year in the UK. Salary is usually dependent on experience, location and company.
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