Practice education survey

To support us to build a more in-depth picture of the practice education landscape in England, we’re asking social workers to share their views on practice education. The survey is for all social workers in England. It is open until 5pm on Friday 6 February 2026.

To take part in the survey, please complete this online form. It should take no more than 5 minutes.

Who should complete the survey?

We would like to hear from all social workers. This could include those who (any of the below):

• are current and former practice educators
• support students on placement
• have trained as a practice educator (even if they haven’t gone into the role)
• are considering training as a practice educator
• have views they’d like to share on the role

Why are we doing this survey?

This survey is part of our wider work about practice education.

In our business plan we committed to:

• Build a more in-depth knowledge of the practice education landscape to inform and support the critical role of practice educators, including potential regulatory levers.

We also know that other social workers, including practice supervisors, have an important role to play in supporting students and may have views on practice education. This is why we welcome responses from anyone on the register.

How was the survey developed?

The survey was shaped by what we’ve heard so far through our research and our Practice Education Development Group and Education and Training Advisory Forum (ETAF). We want to give more people the opportunity to give us their views in the survey.

Is the survey anonymous?

You can complete the survey anonymously. There is also an option to provide your email address if you wish to be kept updated about future work on practice education and further opportunities to get involved.

If you wish to keep your response fully anonymous, but also be kept informed about the project, please email us at practice.education@socialworkengland.org.uk.

For the full details of how we will use your data, please read our privacy notice.

What will happen next?

Over the coming months, there will be more ways to get involved. If you are interested in being kept up to date with the work and opportunities to participate, please give us your contact details in the survey. We’ll keep you updated with next steps.

If you would like assistance to complete the survey, or have any questions about our work on practice education, please email practice.education@socialworkengland.org.uk.