Congratulations Adam and Leona..
Adam Schofield and Leona Alexander are embarking on the next stage of their career with North Tyneside Council after officially receiving their social work degrees.
The pair started their social work apprenticeship with the Council in 2020, moving from other roles in Adult Social Care to train for a career as Social Workers.
Over the past three years they have worked alongside experienced social workers and managers to get on-the-job experience while attending the University of Sunderland for lecturers and dedicated training.
Following their hard work, both Leona and Adam are delighted to begin their roles as Newly Qualified Social Workers at the Council.
Before her degree, Leona was working as a Community Wellbeing Officer where she supported hospital discharge and now, she’s starting an exciting role as a Social Worker in the Community Wellbeing team.
Speaking of her experience of the apprenticeship she said: “It’s been a challenge, but it’s been amazing. I don’t regret it for a second. I’ve had support from the University and my mentor and Practice Educators n the council continually over the three years – it’s been brilliant.
“It’s supported my personal development as well as my career. My confidence and self-belief are so much greater. It’s not just about going to university and getting a degree; it’s been life changing.
“Becoming a qualified social worker has given me so any opportunities to progress in a career I really enjoy. Social work encourages you to learn, to always increase your knowledge and I really feel like I ca support people to make changes in this role.”
Adam is celebrating his achievements too. After taking the leap to re-train as a social worker from his administrative role, he’s now working at a Social Worker in the Whole Life Disability Team, working with people with learning disabilities.
He said: “Being in social work is challenging – but equally rewarding. There is lots of variety and every day is interesting. It’s about human connections – meeting people and really listening to them about their lives is a core part of the job. I use this knowledge to help people get the support they need. Seeing people make positive changes in their lives as a result of my input is very fulfilling”
“The support from colleagues, mentors and practice educators has been fantastic from the start of the apprenticeship. The learning at University also encourages you to learn and grow as a person.”
The apprenticeship programme is part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to developing its workforce and supporting more people in the social work field.
Councillor Janet Hunter, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at North Tyneside Council, said: “I’d like to say a huge congratulations to Leona and Adam for the hard work and commitment they’ve shown throughout their apprenticeship. It’s fantastic to see the outcome of their dedication and to be able to celebrate this achievement.
“Our social work apprenticeship programme is a great opportunity to support colleagues to grow and progress in their careers and is bringing fresh talent into the social work field, which is really important now more than ever.
“I know they’ll be an asset to our social work teams and our residents, and I look forward to seeing their careers continue to flourish.”
The fully funded courses run each year and two more apprentices are set to start their journey this September.