This joint event is a collaboration between the National Practice Teaching in Social Work Initiative (funded by the DCEDIY) and the IASW. This is the second in a series of events planned to support practice teachers. 

It is the responsibility of practice teachers to supervise, teach, and assess the work and suitability of social work students during their practice learning placements. Subsequently, practice teachers are required to make a recommendation to the awarding institution on whether a student is fit to practise. The responsibility of social work practice teachers therefore requires a commitment to, and demonstration of, the necessary skills of report writing.

This UCC Skills Centre session is designed to cater specifically to these areas and is open to both UCC students and wider national social worker networks. The purpose of the session is to outline key skills in writing succinct, impartial, but evidence-based reports. It also explores the importance of incorporating positive reinforcement for improvement, which is grounded in teaching material familiar, or central to, the placement student. In doing so, this webinar aids practice teachers to efficiently guide their students to success in their role.

Speaker Biographies

Kathy Bradley is Head of the Skills Centre in UCC. She is a UCC law graduate, with a Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education and a Higher Diploma in Executive Coaching. Kathy has primarily worked with students returning to education or transitioning to a new educational phase and holds a particular interest in ensuring the students are fully equipped to engage with their chosen subjects. She designs and delivers workshops at third level that provide the student with the tools to allow them to be more confident in their approach to learning. Her positive engagement with academic and student communities allows for the workshop portfolio to remain current and fit for purpose, addressing student skill shortages, and helping them transition to and through university life. The Skills Centre, under her direction provides an active and responsive learning space for students seeking to unlock their potential and participate fully in their chosen academic discipline

Éadaoin Regan has been a member of the UCC Skills Centre team since 2019 and a tutor in the School of English since September 2017. She is a final year PhD student and has upwards of ten years' experience in academic research, writing, teaching, and delivering feedback. Éadaoin role in the Skills Centre has provided her with opportunities to work with both students and professionals alike, from all different career and course backgrounds.