New social work degree in Grimsby creating pathways for local careers

Residents in North East Lincolnshire will soon have access to exciting new career opportunities on their doorstep.

The University Centre Grimsby has become an accredited social work education institute. This milestone paves the way for two new degree programmes in social work, starting in September 2026.

University Centre Grimsby, part of TEC Partnership, already offers a wide range of higher education opportunities with career-focused degrees and smaller class sizes in the heart of the community. Now, with official confirmation from specialist regulator Social Work England, the centre will deliver accredited social work education locally for the first time.

Speaking about what this accreditation means for the local area, Andy Cowdroy, Social Work Lead at the University Centre Grimsby, said:

“The aim of setting up our social work programmes is to work collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders to deliver and maintain the social work workforce. There are so many people out there who would make amazing social workers but are unable to access education. This will no longer be the case; we can now provide local social work education for local people.

“I want to say a huge thank you to all of those who have contributed to developing the programmes, as well as being part of the inspection. We could not have done it without your support.”

This accreditation represents a significant boost for the local skills agenda. It means that people who want to start a career in social work can now access high-quality training without leaving the area. By offering both a full-time BA (Hons) Social Work degree and a BA (Hons) Social Work Degree Apprenticeship, University Centre Grimsby is creating flexible routes into a profession that is in high demand. It also strengthens the borough’s ability to attract and retain skilled professionals, contributing to economic growth.

Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council and a trained social worker, added: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the University Centre Grimsby, which has led to a social work degree course being created and will strengthen the local social work workforce. This collaboration is a real investment in our borough’s future – giving local people the opportunity to train, qualify and build rewarding careers in social work right here in our community.” 

Councillor Phillip Jackson, Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Economy, Regeneration, Devolution and Skills, spoke about the impact this will have on for skills in North East Lincolnshire: “This is fantastic news for North East Lincolnshire and a real boost for our local skills agenda. By introducing accredited social work degrees and apprenticeships here in Grimsby, we’re creating accessible pathways for people to gain high-level qualifications without leaving the area.

“Whether you’re a college leaver, looking to retrain, or seeking a career change, these opportunities make it easier to learn, upskill, and progress in a way that fits around life’s demands. Growing a skilled workforce is vital for our economy, and this development shows how local organisations are committed to supporting residents into rewarding careers.”

North East Lincolnshire Council is hiring social workers. Join the fastest transforming children’s services team in the country. Find out more at Working in Children’s Services.

Find out more about the new Social Work degree at BA (Hons) Social Work.