Social Work Graduates in Northern Ireland from The Open University Celebrate Milestone Achievement

In a boost for social care skills development in Northern Ireland, The Open University celebrated the graduation of the first group of students to complete the BA (Honours) Social Work since its approval by the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (the Social Care Council).

The cohort, comprising of 14 dedicated students who work across the Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCT) and the voluntary sector in Northern Ireland, attended their graduation ceremony at the Belfast Waterfront Hall, on 31st May 2024.

The Open University’s innovative supported distance learning programme allows frontline social care staff to train as social workers whilst continuing in their substantive posts, such as social work assistants, support workers and domiciliary care supervisors in the social care sector.

Funded by the Department of Health (DoH), successful completion of the programme entitles students to apply for registration as a social worker.

This employment-based qualification combines online learning with practical placements, providing students with hands-on experience in real-world settings, whilst availing of continuous support from tutors and their employers. This approach ensures that graduates are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the practical skills necessary for their profession.

Graduate Kyrrah Thom, a mother of two from Aghalee, shared her journey and the impact of the social work programme on her life. “It has been a life changing opportunity, it was very hard work trying to balance full time study, full time work and a family life but it has been worth it. My 9-year-old daughter is watching me graduate today and I hope she sees that University isn't just for teenagers, it is never too late with the OU!  This historic graduation is expected to pave the way for future cohorts, with 94 students currently studying this social work degree in Northern Ireland and 45 funded students estimated to commence study in October 2024, further establishing The Open University as a key player in the health and social care educational landscape of Northern Ireland and beyond. With the increasing demand for social workers, the University’s unique qualification is set to play a crucial role in addressing Northern Ireland’s social care needs.

Amanda Shields, Nation Manager and Professional Lead for Social Work Northern Ireland at The Open University, commended the graduates for their perseverance and dedication. “Today’s graduates have not only achieved academic excellence but have also demonstrated an extraordinary ability to balance their studies with the demands of daily life. Their success is a testament to their resilience and the support of their families, friends, our dedicated faculty and our employer partners.”

Catherine Maguire, Head of Workforce Development at the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, congratulated the new graduates and highlighted the crucial role that they will play in their community. “Once registered as newly qualified social workers these graduates will join a profession focused on supporting the social wellbeing of our citizens.  Our social work graduates work in Health and Social Care, Justice, Education and Voluntary and Community Sectors providing essential services while promoting the rights of those they work with.  The Social Care Council is delighted to welcome this first cohort of graduates from The Open University to the Social work profession at a time when their skills and compassion are needed more than ever.”

As the new graduates’ progress in their social work roles, they carry with them a strong foundation built on the principles of empathy, advocacy, and social justice. The Open University’s innovative approach to social work education has opened new pathways for individuals seeking to advance their careers and make meaningful contributions to society but still earn while they learn.

The social work graduates shared the spotlight with a total of 172 graduates who celebrated their academic achievements from The Open University. These graduates, from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, walked across the stage to receive their hard-earned degrees, cheered on by proud family and friends. The ceremony highlighted their dedication, perseverance, and the supportive community that The Open University fosters.