Local education leaders are hailing the 'grow-your-own' social worker pilot scheme as a great success.

There are currently four students taking part in the scheme and organisers hope to increase this figure to 30. Lynne Richardson, a representative of Hull College, Queens Gardens, believes it offers a fantastic opportunity for potential social workers.

She said: "We are really keen to strengthen the partnership between education and social services to enable students to get the best and most relevant placements in order to help their careers.

"The students range from 16-year-olds through to mature students with various experiences and qualifications.

It is hoped that the students on the relevant courses will be given a chance to work in the different social services department - gaining valuable experience with all client groups.

Ms Richardson added: "In addition, the Big Bash workshop was an opportunity for people to find out more about work experience, education and the different departments in social services.

"Greater emphasis being placed on encouraging local people to look at all the possibilities an options available in the caring sector."

Mature student George Waudby, 45, of Beverley Road, Hull, is among the four students taking part in the initiative. He is undergoing training through Hull College and also attended last Wednesday's event.

He said: "I'm currently on placement at the Highfield Resource centre in Sutton. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience working within a social services environment - and also let my future employers see how I perform."

Another student currently attending Hull College is Elaine Kirkby, 19, of Spring Bank West, west Hull.

She started on a GNVQ Intermediate course in health and social care and has now progresses to the advanced course.

She said: "I appreciate how difficult it is for college students to gain work experience placements in social services. Being part of the grow-you-own scheme has helped me develop practical skills and expand my working knowledge."

Both students have now secured places at both the University of Hull and the University of Lincolnshire & Humberside and will commence their Diploma in Social Work in September 2001.

New career: Advanced health and social care students George Waudby (left) and Elaine Kirkby (right) with Lynne Richardson of Hull College

Story and picture courtesy of the Hull Daily Mail

See also

Taking care of a social shortfall