The new approach to assessment of NQSWs has now been tested and agreed. New templates, resources and guidance should be used from 1 September 2022 with all NQSWs across both child and family and adult services.
We’ve consulted with the sector to establish what works well in the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme, what needs to be changed and what guidance will support this process.
Set in the context of a robust cycle of quality assurance and continuous improvement, the new approach has streamlined the process with a clear focus on ‘quality not quantity’.
As a result, we're developing a mixed approach of guidance within the portfolio templates and links to further resources on our website which will target our three key audiences:
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Newly qualified social workers (NQSWs)
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ASYE assessors (may be dedicated or line managers)
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ASYE coordinators
Ongoing development
The refreshed portfolio templates are now available to view. However, we're still developing further guidance and web resources in preparation of the new ASYE framework going live later in the year.
The templates are applicable to NQSWs completing their ASYE across all sectors (local authorities, private/voluntary/independent) and all services (child and family, adults and mental health).
We acknowledge that some employers who took part in the testing process are already using the new templates. Others, who may have new NQSWs, have asked if the new templates can be used before September. If you're considering this, please note that we'll be adding information and guidance over the coming months and will not be in a position to give individual advice. We'll be offering webinars and regional discussions to help all employers plan for implementation of the new approach.
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This gives more detailed information about how the model has been developed, the main changes that have been made to the templates and the timeline for implementation.
Templates
See the refreshed templates that need to be used by NQSWs, assessors and employers. The five parts highlight which templates you need to use at each stage of the ASYE.
If more than three direct observations are required during the ASYE, then a direct observation template (2: DO, 3: DO or 5: DO) should be modified by changing the direct observation number in the heading of the form.
The NQSW PQS (KSS) self-assessment template is an agency form which should map the NQSW's knowledge, skills and practice against the relevant KSS (child and family or adult services). The NQSW PQS (KSS) self-assessment template is mandatory across all child and family services across all sectors (statutory and private/voluntary/ independent). In child and family services this template should be completed at the beginning, midway and towards the end of the ASYE. It's recommended for NQSWs in adult services across all services and sectors.
Part 1: beginning the ASYE
- For the NQSW - Identification of learning and development needs at the initial professional development meeting and via the post-qualifying standards (PQS formerly the KSS) self-assessment/evaluation tool – this will be an organisational specific form. This initial discussion will inform the support and assessment agreement meeting, prompt thinking about the assessment process in the year ahead, and inform the initial professional development plan (PDP).
- For the assessor – Completing the initial professional development meeting template. Setting out, agreeing and completing the support and assessment agreement with the NQSW (including roles and responsibilities) - this discussion being prompted by the NQSW’s reflections in the initial professional development meeting and completion of their PQS (KSS) self-assessment/evaluation tool. Prompting and enabling the NQSW to reflect on the year ahead, in particular their PDPs.
Part 2: first three months, foundational review
- For the NQSW – Development of critically reflective practice, identification of progress and continuing development needs, planning for the three month foundational review. Submission of work product(s) to ASYE assessor.
- For the assessor – Review of support and progress with reference to the NQSW’s critical reflection within the practice evidence and work products submitted.
Part 3: Three to six months, interim review and assessment
- For the NQSW – Progressive development of critically reflective practice, completing the critical reflection log and planning for the six month interim review and assessment.
- For the assessor – Review of support and progress with reference to the NQSW’s critical reflection log and other evidence submitted, undertaking interim assessment. Assessor to invite any relevant ‘others’ to the interim review meeting.
Part 4: nine months, progressive development meeting
- For the NQSW - Prepare for the nine months progressive development meeting and complete meeting template with the assessor. Submission of work product(s) to ASYE assessor.
- For the assessor - Prepare for the nine months progressive development meeting and complete meeting template with NQSW. Assessor to invite any relevant ‘others’ to the progressive development meeting.
Part 5: six to twelve months, final review and assessment
- For the NQSW - Working towards the end of the ASYE - consolidation of learning, recording in the critical reflection log and planning for continued professional development. Submission of work product(s) to ASYE assessor.
- For the assessor - Final review of support and progress with reference to the NQSW’s critical written reflection log or presentation, and other evidence submitted final assessment leading to recommendation of outcome decision. Assessor to invite any relevant ‘others’ to the final review meeting.