Accredited Child and Family Practitioner (ACFP)

The Accredited Child and Family Practitioner (ACFP) programme is essentially the next step for Newly Qualified Social Workers following completion of their ASYE.

The ACFP is for all social workers in their second year of practice and is where they begin to embed their learning and build on their experiences whilst holding on to increased levels of support and oversight. ACFP is also a valuable opportunity for many social workers who have recently completed the ‘Return to Social Work’ programme.

All social workers who have successfully passed their ASYE are invited to join the ACFP programme as the next step in their career. The aim of this second year is to support their professional development as they continue their learning journey to become an experienced practitioner and take on increasingly complex pieces of work. Oversight and support will still be in place for the social workers on the ACFP programme, however, the protective shell provided by ASYE will be lessened. This creates a step-down approach and supports newly qualified social workers to progress into the reality of practice whilst ensuring readiness and effectiveness.

The programme employs various methods, including training, group supervision, and incorporates insights from experts with lived experience. These diverse approaches are intentionally designed to enhance the overall learning experience.

Unlike the ASYE, there is no portfolio to complete on the ACFP programme, instead participants development will be assessed through a range of activities. For example, towards the end of the year, candidates will undertake a presentation based on their unique professional identity. They will also receive regular feedback on their progress from the ACFP Programme Lead and their Team Manager.  There is a minimum attendance required over the 12 month period of the programme and combined with the assessment activities, participants follow the route to become an Accredited Practitioner at the end of the year. This approach supports the readiness of participants to progress their applications to become a senior social worker.

Through completion of the ACFP programme, we further develop the principle of “grow your own” as well as creating a workforce that would be recognised nationally by being accredited. We value our staff and, through the ACFP, we actively support career development pathways. As a result, this approach this positively impacts practice and promotes improved outcomes for the children and families of Birmingham.