Embedding team-based, peer learning in continuous professional development: The Social Work Online Team Training (SWOTT) Toolkit. Research Note

This research note presents the findings from the piloting of a new model for CPD, entitled the Social Work Online Team Training (SWOTT) toolkit, completed 2021/22. The SWOTT toolkit proof of concept project had a number of objectives: to establish a model for CPD based on peer learning through team-based, rather than individual, CPD activity; to promote equitable access to CPD and shared learning experiences for teams; to offer up-to-date, evidence-informed, flexible and accessible CPD activity using an online platform; to build the capacity of social workers (as training recipients) and team managers (as training facilitators). The project was funded by the Department for Education via a Teaching Partnership. The research team designed and piloted a SWOTT Toolkit on participatory methods in child protection social work across eight teams from children’s social care (CSC), spanning five local authorities. The teams represented different areas of CSC including family support, assessment, locality, children with disabilities, fostering, and IRO/LADO. They included students/apprentices, Level 1 and 2 social workers, practice supervisors and team managers. The study gained ethical approval from the University of Sheffield (reference number 043434).