Assessed and supported year in employment (ASYE)

For newly qualified social workers to learn about the ASYE programme.

ASYE programme summary (2026 to 2027)

For

Newly qualified social workers

Duration

12 months

Time commitment

Full-time or part-time

Cost

Free

Delivered by

Your employer

Overview

The ASYE programme is funded by the Department for Education and helps you develop your skills and knowledge in child and family social work in a supported environment.

You do not have to complete ASYE, but most employers will expect you to take part. They use the programme to support you to meet the post‑qualification standards for child and family practitioners.

You can find registration and funding information for the ASYE programme on GOV.UK.

Changes to the ASYE programme

The early career development programme will replace ASYE from autumn 2027.

It is a 2-year programme that aligns with the early career standards for child and family social workers which apply from 1 April 2027.

Until then:

  • you can continue to complete ASYE until March 2027
  • your employer must continue to register and support newly qualified social workers
  • funding will continue under current arrangements
  • if you have already started ASYE, you will complete the current programme

If you start during the transition period

The transition period is between March 2027 and the start of the new programme in autumn 2027.

If you start your role during this time you will:

  • not join ASYE, as it will have closed to new starters
  • move onto the early career development programme when it becomes available

What support you will get

During the transition period, your employer will continue to support your development.

You can expect:

  • a structured induction when you start
  • regular supervision and support
  • opportunities to develop your skills in practice

This support will help you prepare to join the early career development programme when it begins.

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These resources have been developed by Department for Education.
Published: 18 September 2023
Last updated: 23 June 2026
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