National Data

Statistical information relating to practice learning has become more refined over the past two years. In January 2003 the Taskforce published regional and national data for the first time. The social work degree to commenced in September 2003, therefore the initial figures provided by the universities and colleges were based on their planned, rather than actual, student numbers. The major headlines, at that time, were that year on year increases in practice learning days were required, with an almost half a million increase by 2006/07 from the baseline provided for the Diploma in Social Work.

The social work degree programmes are now well underway and more accurate data, based on actual student numbers has been provided. Some programmes have also received additional funding for places via the Higher Education Council for England. This has resulted in a significant increase in the number of social work students, which has in turn impacted on the demand for practice learning.

The latest figures (September 2004) reveal that by 2006/07 1,168,795 practice learning days are required, which translate into 14,667 practice learning opportunities. From the DipSW baseline provision in 2002/03 an increase of 603,271 days (107%), 6175 (73%) practice learning opportunities are needed.

Further analysis shows that the number of practice learning days that a social work programme needs does not necessarily correlate with the number of practice learning opportunities required. The determining factors being the number of routes being offered and whether there is a Year 1 practice learning opportunity.

Tables are available on both a national and regional basis detailing the numbers required in terms of practice learning days and opportunities. Nine regional timetables of practice learning are provided in order for agencies, that are considering becoming a practice learning provider, to identify which social work programme best fits with their needs in terms of the timing of the learning opportunity and the level of learning.

It should be noted that the figures shown are based on information provided by the universities and colleges. Although systems for the collection of practice learning data are becoming established and more refined, this data should be regarded as best estimates.

• What's needed nationally (practice learning days)
• What's needed nationally (practice learning opportunities)
• Summary of shortfall for the regions (by practice learning days)
• Summary of shortfall for the regions (by practice learning opportunities)
• Regional position table

Statistics for the regions are detailed in the Regional Data section.