KCC training opportunities
We are committed to investing in the development of a
skilled and knowledgeable workforce. We know that this is important
if we are to help the people of Kent live safely and independently
in their local communities.
As part of this commitment we guarantee a minimum of 5
training/development days for all of our employees every year. We
also seek to ensure that everyone has access to a wide range of
training and development opportunities related to their individual
job role.
Induction
All new employees will undertake a structured, comprehensive
induction programme which is personalised to meet their individual
needs.
For social care workers this will be accredited against the
Skills for Care Common Induction Standards or the Learning
Disability Induction Award.
Induction is about ensuring that new employees understand what
is required of them in their role, that they gain the knowledge and
skills that are required of them and that they are able to
undertake their new role safely.
In social care roles induction creates a pathway to the NVQ
Level 2 in Health and Social Care as the work undertaken
contributes to the underpinning knowledge requirements of this
qualification.
Training
As a minimum all social care workers will receive training in
first aid, administration of medication, health and safety,
diversity and adult protection.
In addition to this we run a comprehensive range of courses to
support our social care staff in gaining the knowledge and skills
that are required for their individual job roles. This includes
training in subjects such as diabetes, palliative care,
understanding Parkinson's disease, quality and client centred
approaches and emergency planning.
Qualifications
Following the induction, period social care workers will
have the opportunity to undertake a Diploma in Health & Social
Care Level 2 as well as Awards and Certificates in Learning
Disability, Dementia, Activity Provision, Safety and Nutrition, and
Diabetes.
As your career progresses there are further qualifications that
you can undertake where they are relevant to your job role or
personal development. These include the Diploma in Health and
Social Care level 3, Level 5 Diploma in Leadership of Health &
Social Care and Children and Young People's Services and
generic management qualifications.
Routes into social work
There are a variety of ways to enter the social work profession.
For more information see
routes into social work (PDF, 26k) or visit the Department of Health's social
care website.
The Degree in Social Work is vocational and involves practice
placements of 200 days. Kent County Council provides statutory
placements to students at local universities, offering full and
stimulating experiences.