Rorie

"Before applying for the BA social work degree at Goldsmiths, I thought carefully about which university I would like to study at. Goldsmiths stood out for me as it has a fantastic reputation for social work. This definitely influenced my decision to apply for the degree.

Before starting the course, I undertook some voluntary work with two agencies. One was as an appropriate adult, advocating for young people and vulnerable adults who had been arrested and who were to be interviewed by the police. The second voluntary role that I undertook was a voluntary support role, working with young people and adults who have a learning disability. Both voluntary roles were invaluable in helping me to develop the communication skills needed for a social work role, verbal and non-verbal.

Whilst studying at Goldsmiths, I also undertook two practice placements. The first practice placement was during the second year. It took place in a primary school, in a diverse area of London. This prepared me well in terms of being able to support children emotionally and also for working with families to enable them to access support services to improve outcomes for the children.

My second placement was in a statutory children in need team in a large, diverse London borough. I managed my own caseload and was fortunate enough to gain a range of experience including carrying out assessments of need and carrying out direct work with children who are looked after.

Throughout my practice placements, I always knew that I had the support of my tutor and the other social work lecturers at Goldsmiths. This high level of support enabled me to cope with the demands of the course and address any difficulties that may arise.

I feel proud of my achievements as a result of studying at Goldsmiths. I feel strongly that the course prepared me for the job hunting process and I am delighted to have secured a role in a statutory children in need team with a local authority in London.

I would encourage anyone who is considering a social work degree to apply to Goldsmiths as the reputation of the course is very good and will undoubtedly help in that crucial search for your first social work role."