Three-year degree in 2003

Health minister John Hutton announced earlier this week a
three-year degree programme in social work from 2003 and confirmed
plans to ensure continual professional development through
re-registration.

The reforms follow consultation on A Quality Strategy for
Social Care and reports on the future of the DipSW that were
published in August 2000.

Hutton described the move as a big step forward in enhancing the
study of social work.

“This is a major opportunity and the sector has been calling for
it for years,” he said.

Chairperson of training body TOPSS England Arthur Keefe said he
was pleased that Hutton appeared to be keeping an open mind about
funding for the additional year of study.

The requirements for re-registration will be set by the incoming
General Social Care Council.