The Consolidation and Preparation for Specialist Practice unit is Stage 1 of the revised Post Qualifying Social Work framework and is designed to provide you with a firm foundation and preparation for your chosen specialist practice eg Children & Family, Adults or Mental Health.

Completion of this course will lead to the award of 40 level H credits, and if applicable, a Graduate Certificate. If you continue on the specialist route you have chosen it may lead to the award of BA (Hons) or Graduate Diploma in your chosen specialist area.

This course is delivered as a partnership between local authorities and Bournemouth University's School of Health & Social Care (HSC).

This unit will enable you to demonstrate you have consolidated your initial training from the point of qualification and can apply your competence within an area of specialist practice. It will also provide a foundation for further professional development, which will extend and enhance professional competence within a chosen specialist context.

What is involved?
The course is delivered at a variety of locations. Two half day workshops are offered to help you complete your portfolio, together with self-managed learning based on support materials provided by the University.

You will be required to produce a portfolio with the following information:

Part A
Curriculum Vitae (from the point of qualification in social work)
CPD review

Part B
Practice Analysis
Third Party Testimony

Who can apply
The course is applicable for all those who meet the following criteria:
* have their manager's agreement
* are included within the GSCC register as a 'Registered Social Worker' and are currently a practising social worker
* hold a relevant social work qualification such as a Degree in Social Work, CSS, CQSW, Dip SW, their predecessor or international equivalent qualifications
* have a minimum of six months' post qualifying experience at the time of application
* if you already hold PQ1 this course is not suitable for you because you should be able to APL (accreditation of prior learning) into the consolidation module of relevant specialist awards at other Universities.

How to apply
Course fees are £395
You can apply directly to Bournemouth University. For more information visit: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/ihcs/pqsw.html

In partnership with Bucks County Council, Bournemouth University is delivering this course on the following dates next year:

* Thursday 10th January 2008, Mezzanine Room 2, County Hall, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 1XA
* Thursday 6th March 08, Common Room, Green Park Centre, Stablebridge Road, Aston Clinton, Bucks HP22 5NE.