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Social Work Practice Educators Professional Standards 1

  • Study Mode: Full Time
  • Location: High Wycombe
  • Duration: One Year
  • Start Date: September 2026

You can also study this course:

Do you want to take on the role of a Social Work Practice Educator to mentor, support and assess the next generation of Social Workers as they develop and grow in there learning? If you are a keen leader with at least two years’ experience as a qualified Social Worker, this short course is designed to act as the first stepping stone to get you to the next step and help you pave the way to qualify as a Social Work Practice Educator.

Every Trainee Practice Educator is mentored and assessed by a Qualified Social Work Practice Educator and also have a tutor support throughout the course.

Why Study at BNU?

All BNU Social Work courses are accredited by Social Work England and/or the British Association of Social Workers, ensuring that our programmes meet rigorous professional standards. 

Our teaching teams comprise experienced industry experts who bring a wealth of practical knowledge and insight, dedicated to guiding and mentoring students throughout their learning journey.

As a student at BNU, you’ll have access to a range of facilities, including our 24 hour library, study areas, computer suites and our Students’ Union. You can also use our award-winning services such as career support and guidance, mental health and wellbeing support and cost-of-living support.  

What will I study?

PEPS 1 will help you gain the essential knowledge you need to be able to take the first step in gaining professional qualifications to assess Social Work students as a Practice Educator. It’s fully aligned with the BASW England Practice Educator Professional Standards (PEPS) and prepares you to confidently support the next generation of Social Workers.

This course is thoughtfully designed to nurture and enhance your commitment to supporting the professional growth of student Social Workers. It will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to perform your role with clarity and professionalism, ensuring full alignment with established industry standards. Through comprehensive training and reflective practice, you will be empowered to make a meaningful impact in the development of future social work practitioners.

How will I be taught and assessed?

The course is structured to run over a minimum duration of one academic year alongside the Social Work student placement. Throughout this timeframe, participants will engage in a variety of key activities designed to consolidate their learning and professional development. 

These include engaging in teaching sessions, working with others on PEPS 1 and PEPS2 in completing midway and end of placement assessments, participating in skills days for Social Work students and participating in a practice standards panel. 

In addition, participants will be required to compile and submit a comprehensive professional portfolio that reflects their progress and achievements throughout the course.

What are the course entry requirements?

Applicants must be two years post completing their Social Work Qualification (this can include the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) to be considered for this course.

What are the tuition fees

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  • Home, Academic Year 2026 - 2027: £830 per year *

Please note all of the 2026/27 fees stated are subject to parliamentary procedure. Tuition fees are expected to increase each academic year in line with the maximum permitted value set by the Government for that academic year. The expected rise for Home undergraduate students (including those on a foundation year course), may impact both new and continuing students.

Please note, distance learning and international fees are subject to change for 2027/2028 intake.

Additional costs

Your tuition fees cover most course costs, but you may need to budget for additional expenses. These can include specialist equipment, project materials, professional memberships, field trips or placements, as well as everyday student costs like printing, books and stationery.

Contact us

If you have any questions about the fees above, contact our enquiries team by completing this form.

Course leader

A head shot of a smiling Mariette Uys who has short hair and is wearing glasses
Mariëtte Uys
  • Senior Lecturer
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