The Learning Academy: Growing Practice, Inspiring Futures
At the heart of Nottingham City’s Children’s Integrated Services is our Learning Academy Team—a vibrant hub of growth, reflection, and ambition. It’s more than a training centre; it’s a one-stop shop for learning, development, and support, designed to empower every practitioner at every stage of their journey.
Whether you're just beginning your career or deepening your expertise, the Learning Academy is here to walk alongside you. We host:
- Pre-qualifying education support for students and apprentices
- Post-qualifying development through the ASYE and beyond
- A rich programme of continuous professional development (CPD) tailored to evolving practice needs
Our approach is restorative, reflective, and relational—because we believe that when practitioners feel supported, children and families thrive.
The Learning Academy is also home to our Quality Assurance and Participation functions. This means our learning offer is:
- Current and relevant, shaped by real-time insights from practice
- Influenced by the voices of children, young people, and families, ensuring our work stays rooted in what matters most
- Ambitious and aspirational, always striving for better outcomes and stronger relationships
We don’t just deliver training, we build a community of reflective practitioners who learn with and from each other. Through workshops, coaching, peer learning, and restorative spaces, the Learning Academy fosters a culture where curiosity is encouraged, and growth is continuous. Join us in a place where learning is lived, not just taught. At Nottingham City, your development is our priority, because when you grow, so does the impact you make.
Your Journey Begins Here: Pathways into Social Work in Nottingham City
We’re proud to offer multiple routes into the profession, making social work accessible to people with a wealth of different experiences:
A flexible, earn-while-you-learn route over three years, where apprentices:
- Are based in a home team for the majority of the year
- Complete student placements in Years 2 and 3
- Are released one day a week to complete university study
This route is ideal for those who want to gain hands-on experience while working toward qualification.
A fast-track, 14-month postgraduate programme for graduates with experience working with children and families. This intensive route combines academic study with hands-on placements and leads to a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work.
Learn more and apply via the official Step Up to Social Work website
Starting your career in children’s social care is a profound step and at Nottingham City, we’re here to walk that journey with you. Our Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) is more than just a transition into professional practice. It’s a carefully designed, nurturing experience that helps you grow in confidence, competence, and connection. More information can be found here ASYE
A Cohort That Grows Together
We offer a two-stage intake (in October and March) so you’ll join a cohort of peers who are on the same path. This means you’ll never walk alone. You’ll share experiences, support one another, and build lasting professional relationships that strengthen your practice and wellbeing.
Specialist Support, Tailored to You
Our commitment to your development is reflected in our dedicated Practice Education and ASYE Coordinators, who bring a wealth of experience and passion to your learning. They deliver bespoke training tailored to the unique needs of Nottingham City, ensuring your development is grounded in the real-world context of the children and families we serve.
From reflective supervision to skills-based workshops, you’ll be supported every step of the way to become a confident, resilient, and restorative practitioner.
Join us in making a difference—together.
Whether you’re just starting out or changing careers, Nottingham City is the place to grow, learn, and thrive in children’s social care.
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