The NSWQB accredits social work courses in Ireland, in accordance with Handbook of Standards and Procedures for Courses leading to the National Qualification in Social Work (NQSW) Award. The Handbook establishes requirements for course accreditation in relation to:
The Handbook also sets out procedures for accreditation and for the formation and operation of the Panel of Assessors and Accreditation Panels.
Additionally, the NSWQB accredits post-qualifying courses for social workers, in accordance with the Handbook of Accreditation of Post-Qualifying Courses undertaken by Social Workers. Accreditation of post-qualifying courses is based on the following areas, as set out in the Handbook:
The National Qualification in Social Work (NQSW) is the professional social work qualification in Ireland, granted to students who successfully complete a recognised course. The NQSW has been awarded since 1993. Previously, courses were accredited by the UK body CCETSW, which awarded the Certificate of Qualification in Social Work (CQSW). The CQSW is equivalent to the NQSW.
All of the following are recognised for practice as professional social workers in Ireland:
For recruitment purposes, employers should ask to see original copies of the NQSW, CQSW or in the case of those who have non-national qualifications, the Letter of Accreditation from the NSWQB. Employers are also advised to check with the NSWQB to make sure that holders of NQSWs or Letters of Accreditation are entered on record.
The NSWQB issues letters of verification to holders of CQSWs, if required.
See also:
- Employers FAQ
- Employers Guide (printed publications)
- Employers (non-national qualifications)
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