From Classroom to Practice: Navigating Your First Year in Social Work | BASW England Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Seminar CPD Event

Are you a student or newly qualified social worker? Curious about what the first year in practice really looks like?

Join us for a thought-provoking and practical session with Claire Bracknell and Tracy Chapman, two recent MA Social Work graduates from the University of Derby, as they reflect on their journey through the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE).

In supporting networking and practitioner wellbeing this is an online Hybrid and In-person branch event open to students, social workers, BASW members and non-members studying, living, or working in the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire area.

Tracey is a child protection social worker in the High Peak and North Dales team for Derbyshire County Council. She is currently working on her ASYE and aims to complete her Assessed and Supported Year in Employment by October 2025. Tracey’s particular interest lies in working with parents to help them understand expectations within social care involvement—from referral through to child protection interventions.

WHAT TO EXPECT: • First-Hand Experiences Claire and Tracy will share their real-life stories of transitioning from university to professional practice, including challenges faced, key lessons learned, and moments that shaped their first year in the field. • Top Tips for Success Hear their practical advice on managing caseloads, building resilience, supervision, and maintaining your values in busy environments. • Moving into the Professional Arena Learn how they found their professional identity, navigated multi-agency work, and built confidence as newly qualified social workers. This is a fantastic opportunity to hear from peers who have recently walked the path you're about to begin. Bring your questions, curiosity, and enthusiasm! Let’s bridge the gap between study and practice—together.

Please note if joining online the start time is 6:30pm