Childrens Newly Qualified Social Workers

Job Description

Why Join Surrey Children’s Services as a Newly Qualified Social Worker?

If you are eager to kickstart your career in social work with strong support while making a real difference for children and young people, Surrey might be the perfect place for you. We’ve earned a Good rating from Ofsted, reflecting our dedication to high quality services.

Our entry level salary starts at £37,995 per year for a 36-hour week. Plus, you’ll receive an additional £6,000 upon successfully completing your Assisted and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) with us.

We are excited to invite Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSWs) to our Spring 2026 intake, beginning on May 18, 2026. We also have an Autumn program lined up for October 2026, with applications opening around April or May, and interviews in June. To stay in the loop for the Autumn cohort, simply fill out this quick 30-second Microsoft Form to register your interest—our team will reach out when things go live: [Register Your Interest – Surrey Children’s Service – ASYE Programme Autumn 2026  Collaboration].

Our Area and Team Options

Surrey is a lively, expansive county nestled near Greater London, Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, and Berkshire. Check out the attached map for a better sense of our layout.

We have openings across various children’s teams throughout the county. When you apply, let us know which locations and teams interest you.

Key Locations:

• Northeast: Based in Weybridge, serving Elmbridge, Spelthorne, and Epsom & Ewell.
• Southeast: Based in Reigate, covering Reigate & Banstead, Tandridge, and Mole Valley.
• Northwest: Based in Woking, handling Woking, Surrey Heath, and Runnymede.
• Southwest: Based in Guildford, supporting Guildford and Waverley.

Available Teams:

• Assessment
• Family Safeguarding
• Adolescent Safeguarding (divided into North, East, or West regions with varying office locations)
• Children with Disabilities
• Children Looked After
• Fostering

In this role, you’ll need to travel to your team’s office and around the local area for hands-on work with families, meetings, and training. We embrace flexible working, blending home and office time to suit your needs as a new social worker, while ensuring you get plenty of learning opportunities and meet service demands. We can chat more about this during your interview.

Dive into Our ASYE Program

Our ASYE program is solid, backed by a team of seasoned social workers and leaders who are here to help you grow. Over the 12 months, you’ll get consistent reflective supervision from your Team Manager and a dedicated ASYE Assessor to build your expertise and confidence for long-term success in social work.

Ofsted’s latest review praised us as ‘Good,’ noting that our staff are skilled, dedicated, and feel truly appreciated. They highlighted our strong leadership team’s drive to elevate social work standards. You can dive into the full report.

This recognition is a big win for us, underscoring our focus on positive outcomes for kids and families. After finishing the program, you can advance within Surrey County Council through our Year 2 post-qualifying support, including ongoing guidance from the Children’s Academy, peer networks, and skill-building resources.

Learn more about our offerings on the [Surrey Children’s Services Academy webpage].

As an NQSW in our program, you’ll enjoy:

Onboarding and Guidance:

• A thorough induction through the ASYE Academy and your team.
• An experienced Advanced Social Worker as your ASYE Assessor, alongside your Team Manager.
• Enhanced supervision in the early months, tapering as you gain confidence.
• A lighter workload that builds to 90% by program end.
• Monthly reflective sessions (one-on-one or group) with your Assessor.
• Support from our Children’s Quality Practice and Performance Service to refine your practice.

Growth and Training:

• Monthly learning sessions tied to Post Qualifying Standards (KSS).
• Two protected days per month for development.
• Access to platforms like Community Care Inform and Care Knowledge.
• Training via the Surrey Safeguarding Children’s Partnership, plus our broader Academy options, including specialized courses on court skills and domestic abuse.
• A dedicated SharePoint site for resources and teamwork.

Perks and Support:

• 28 days of annual leave, increasing to 30 after five years (plus public holidays).
• We cover your Social Work England registration fees while you’re with us.
• Option to purchase up to 10 extra leave days.
• A robust pension plan linked to local government salaries.
• Up to five days of carer’s leave and two paid volunteering days annually.
• Generous parental, adoption, and dependent leave policies.
• An Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing support.
• A hub full of learning resources.
• Discounts on gyms, travel, shopping, and more.
• The rewarding chance to positively impact local lives.

What We are Looking For

To move forward in our process, your application should demonstrate:

• A social work qualification (like a degree, master’s, or postgraduate diploma) or be on track to earn one soon.
• Registration (or upcoming) with Social Work England, and eligibility to work in the UK without needing visa sponsorship from us.
• Experience supporting children, young people, and families through volunteering, related jobs, or placements.
• Qualification within two years before the May 2026 start (if earlier than May 2024, we can’t consider your application).
• A valid UK driving license and access to a vehicle for work travel.

Before applying, take a peek at the full job description and our [Life at Surrey handbook] for a feel of our culture.

We are a forward-thinking organization committed to protecting children and providing timely support to families. With a mix of city and countryside vibes, our teams cover wide areas, so driving is key—though we’ll make reasonable adjustments for disabilities or health conditions.

Get in Touch and Apply

Have questions about the position, accommodations, the program, or our setup? Email us at surreychildrens.academy@surreycc.gov.uk—we‘re here to help.

Applications close at 11:59 PM on February 8, 2026, with shortlisting the week of February 9. If selected, expect an in-person interview at one of our offices during the week of March 2, 2026. We’ll share interview topics ahead of time to help you prepare.

This role requires an enhanced DBS check and barred list reviews. We’re also transitioning to new unitary councils in April 2027 as part of local government changes—if you’re with us then, your position will shift over with the same terms. It’s an exciting time to contribute to better community services! More details [here: Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation – Surrey County Council].

As a disability-confident employer, if you disclose a disability and meet the basics, you’re guaranteed an interview. We prioritize your abilities and experiences, and we’re dedicated to an inclusive process where everyone feels supported and valued. Come be part of a team that fosters belonging and growth.