Polly Sykes

Profile

Areas of expertise

• Placements and Practice Education
• Adults social care - particularly learning disabilities
• Bereavement and Loss

Academic Biography

After qualifying as a social worker in 2003, I spent most of my front line social work career working with disabled children, young people preparing for adulthood, and adults. Having seen the challenges faced by those that I work with, I am enthusiastic about the need for social justice and equality.

While working on the front line, I developed an interest in teaching the next generation of social workers. I supported students as both an on-site and off-site Practice Educator in various settings. I am keen to ensure that all students have a sound placement experience, and since joining the university I have worked with colleagues to undertake research into the placement experience of people from a global majority background.

I joined the university in 2013, and I am currently the Head of Social Work and Director of Practice Learning. In addition to teaching, I have undertaken various citizenship roles, including Chair of the Fitness to Practice Panel and the Independent Practice Panel. I am involved in various regional and national groups, working closely with other universities and employers towards developing good practice in social work education and employment.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate certificate in Academic Practice (2019)
• BA (hons) Business & Management at Leeds Met University 2012
• Practice Educator Award 2008 
• MSc Applied Social Work at Oxford University 2003
• BA (hons) Biblical Studies & Philosophy at Sheffield University 1999

Teaching

I am involved in various aspects of the Social Work course. In particular, I lead the following modules:

• Knowledge into Practice
• Social Work Across the Lifecourse
• Practice Education Professional Standards (Stage 1)