Personal Statement:Ma social work - The Student Room

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Currently, I am studying BA Honours Early Childhood Studies, which has given me the necessary foundations to continue in the next steps of my academic journey. The past three years have helped me to develop a wide range of transferable skills such as written and oral communication skills. I have gained such skills through assignment writing and seminars. I dedicate all my time to studying, family and volunteering. Therefore, prioritising of tasks is vital. I ensure that academic and family commitments are completed on time. I have an excellent ability to work as a part of a team which I have demonstrated through collaborative work during lectures.

In the last three years, I have acquired an excellent understanding of anti-discriminatory practice. An anti-discriminatory practice is essential in order to prevent discrimination against people on the grounds of race, gender, disability and religion. I have an excellent understanding of anti-discriminatory practice and I show my understanding by treating individuals equally but in their own distinct right.

The module 'Supporting Children’s Well-Being' has made me realise that social work is the only career for me, because I discovered the insights into the challenges and issues that social workers may face and also the satisfaction that the career has to offer. This has given me a focus and a desire to pursue a career as a social worker.

My academic and professional experiences have given me a strong desire to further my knowledge in social work. I am committed, self-motivated and believe I have qualities suited to progress in this field of study. My qualities include empathy and a commitment to social justice. To the next academic journey, I will bring passion, enthusiasm and dedication.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

I have gained skills such as professional judgement through volunteering. Academic and professional experiences have helped me to develop an awareness of my own values and beliefs whilst showing respect for others. I am comfortable with dealing with my own identity, which in turn allows me to be effective in responding to the needs of others with different identity attributes.

In the last two years, I have gained knowledge and understanding in various modules that include Social Policy. Different legislations, including the Children Act 1989 and Every Child Matters 2003, have given me the understanding of the complexities and issues within families, poverty and social exclusion in society. In addition, I have an understanding of the impact of Government’s and Local Authority’s decision making on local organisations such as Sure Start Centres. Such decisions are paramount as they impact communities and may cause adverse effects such as social isolation on service users.

I also understand the importance of multi-agency and partnership working within the health and social care sector. Professor Munro’s literature about safeguarding and child protection has made me aware of some of the issues that social workers endeavour and how to manage potential issues.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Since October 2011, I have been volunteering for ChildLine. My role involves attending primary schools and delivering assemblies and workshops, both of which aim to provide a platform of support and understanding of key safeguarding messages about abuse. In this capacity, I have learnt how to communicate issues including domestic violence and bullying in an appropriate manner.

Additionally, in the last two years I have volunteered in a primary school. This role has given me an awareness of the diverse needs of children and the understanding of how unique children are. I have learnt about various professionals and outside agencies that work in schools to provide individual support for children.

From November 2012, I will be volunteering for Home Start. I envisage that this will expand my existing knowledge and skills within the social care sector and enable me to work with families in the community.

Universities applied to:

• Manchester Metropolitan
• Liverpool Hope University
• University of Chester
• University of Salford
• Sheffield Hallam University
• Liverpool John Moores University

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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