DA5109 - Social Work Law and Ethics: the context of your organisation

To ensure a well-rounded learning experience, this module adopts a comprehensive approach that blends tutor-led sessions with opportunities for independent exploration. Short, engaging lectures will introduce key legal concepts and social work strategies, providing a strong foundation for further classroom-based and self-directed exploration. Small group seminars will then allow apprentices to actively participate in analysing real-life scenarios, applying their newfound knowledge to practical situations. This active learning is supported by directed learning activities, where apprentices can delve deeper into specific topics through self-directed study. Seminar activities will be varied and engaging, incorporating reflection exercises that encourage apprentices to consider how their understanding of law and policy influences their professional practice and decision-making processes. Guest speakers, including educators with lived experience and registered social workers, will provide insights into the real-world intersectionality of law and social policy in practice. Finally, apprentices will have access to a rich online learning environment through the Blackboard e-Learning Portal. This portal will provide a central hub for accessing supplementary resources and materials related to both lecture topics and seminar discussions, further enhancing their understanding and supporting their learning journey.

Academic support for apprentices, especially in the context of developing academic and research skills, is essential for success. Apprentices attend workshops that blend short bursts of lecture-style teaching with group exercises focused on learning and developing specific academic and research skills. These workshops provide structured guidance and hands-on practice. Apprentices will have access to individualised support through group tutoring or mentoring sessions. This personalised assistance allows academics to address specific challenges, give feedback, and tailor learning experience to meet emerging needs.
Apprentices can access a variety of online resources and learning platforms outside of formal teaching hours. These resources may include video tutorials, interactive modules, academic writing guides, research databases, and virtual libraries. These tools supplement classroom learning and offer self-paced study options.
Establishing peer support groups among apprentices for sharing experiences, discussing academic challenges, and collaborating is encouraged. Peer support encourages teamwork, enhances communication skills, and fosters a sense of community among peers.
Apprentices have access to academic support who provide guidance on academic planning, academic writing, research methodology, citation guidelines, and literature review techniques.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding (K&U):
KU1.Demonstrate an analytical understanding of the legal and policy frameworks that inform social work practice within your organisation.
KU 2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the complexities that exist when applying law and statutory guidance in practice.

Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities (IPSA):
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
IPSA 1. Critically reflect on the ethical tensions between protection and control when balancing rights and responsibilities in social work practice. IPSA 2. Demonstrate how social work legally mandated duties, powers and responsibilities are applied in practice.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
PVA 1. Understand the interface between social work law, values and ethics and apply this to anti oppressive practice when safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of individuals and families.

Formative Assessment.
The formative assessment takes the form of a simulated strategy discussion where the apprentice will be required to assess and present information in a professional assessment and decision-making context and produce a record of the strategy discussion.
Feedback will be provided by the module tutor and a guest practitioner.

Summative Assessment.
Apprentices will critique one intervention relating to adult legislation and one intervention relating to child legislation, evaluating literature including case law and research findings to support their analysis of risk and harm. Each analysis will be 1500 words.
Tutors will formally assess summative assessment providing written feedback and marks based on the assessment criteria contained in the module handbook.

DA4088, DA4089, DA4091, DA4092, DA4093

DA5108, D5111, DA5112

This module equips social work apprentices with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the legal and ethical complexities inherent in professional practice. Apprentices will deepen their understanding of social work roles, legal responsibilities, and ethical considerations. They will explore legislative frameworks, societal impacts on individuals and communities, and advanced research methodologies in social work. The module emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills necessary for effective service delivery. Apprentices will develop enhanced cultural humility, ethical decision-making, and advocacy for social justice. The curriculum aligns with the Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship standards, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for lifelong learning and professional progression as well as being prepared to practice within Social Work England professional standards.