In this episode, our hosts explore the role of the Practice Educator, reflecting on their own experiences of supporting and assessing student social workers in practice. They discuss the responsibilities and expectations of the role, the rewards and challenges of practice education, and the impact that openness within learning environments can have on the development of future social workers.

To support listeners, some of the professional terms discussed during the episode are explained below.

Statutory Social Work

Statutory social work refers to social work undertaken within the legal duties and powers of local authorities. It includes safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children, adults at risk, and communities, and often involves making complex decisions that balance rights, risks, and needs. Responsibility and accountability for these statutory interventions rest with registered social workers.

Source: Scottish Government, The Role of the Registered Social Worker in Statutory Interventions. https://www.gov.scot/publications/role-registered-social-worker-statutory-interventions-guidance-local-authorities/pages/2/

Psychological Safety

Psychological safety is a shared belief that people can speak up, ask questions, admit mistakes, raise concerns, or offer different perspectives without fear of embarrassment, punishment, or other negative consequences. It enables open communication, learning, and effective teamwork.

Source: McKinsey & Company, What is Psychological Safety? https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-explainers/what-is-psychological-safety

Code of Professional Practice

In Wales, the Code of Professional Practice for Social Care sets out the standards of conduct and practice expected of everyone registered with Social Care Wales. The Code describes how social care workers should uphold the rights, wellbeing, voice, and choice of people who use care and support services, while acting with honesty, integrity, professionalism, and accountability. It provides the framework for ethical practice and professional decision-making across the social care workforce.

Source: Social Care Wales, Code of Professional Practice for Social Care.

Social Justice

Social justice is the principle that everyone should have equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources. Within social work, it underpins efforts to reduce inequality, challenge discrimination, and improve access to opportunities and support, particularly for people who experience disadvantage or marginalisation.

Source: National Association of Social Workers, Social Justice Priorities. https://www.socialworkers.org/Advocacy/Social-Justice/Social-Justice-Priorities