Our History

For five decades, the UEA Social Work community has been shaping lives, strengthening communities, and championing change. 

1976 marked the start of Social Work at UEA, initiated by the innovative launch of a two-year Master’s Degree in Social Work in October 1976. 

Open to graduates of all subjects, the course was run by Dr Martin Davies, a former probation officer, civil servant and academic. The 1980s and 1990s saw the introduction of a variety of social work courses and the establishment of the Centre for Research on Children and Families by Professor June Thoburn in 1996. 

The School has been recognised among the UK's best for social work ranking sixth nationally in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027.  It continues to grow and offer highly-ranked MA and BA Social Work programmes and Apprenticeships with a focus on high-quality research that informs social work policy and practice. 

The Centre for Research in Children and Families has developed a strong research profile, coming 4^th in the most recent Research Excellence Framework exercise in 2021.

50 years of Social Work excellence

September 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Social Work at UEA, with a range of events planned to celebrate five decades of success in education, supporting communities, and impactful research.

Over the past five decades our School of Social Work and the Centre for Research in Children and Families has developed a strong research profile with academics exploring some of the most complex issues facing children, families and communities in today’s society. 

This includes research into adoption, transforming the lives of children in state care, leading the way in child protection, and strengthening support for foster carers through innovative therapeutic fostering approaches. 

Get Involved
We invite our partners and alumni to connect, reflect, and help inspire future students.

Here are some ways you can take part:

Alumni - Share Your Journey
Tell us where your social work career has taken you—we’d love to feature your story in our alumni spotlight.

Complete the Alumni Case Study Form to let us know what UEA means to you, what you've been up to since you've left, and your favourite social work memories. We will then follow up with you and give you the opportunity to share any imagery.

Hear Our Stories

In September 2026, we were delighted to hear UEA Emeritus Professor June Thoburn and Social Work student Mercy on BBC Radio Norfolk, sharing their insights and experiences and highlighting the impact of social work in our communities.

The interview took place to commemorate 50 years of Social Work at UEA, marking five decades of educating and inspiring social workers.

You can listen to the interview via the link below. June and Mercy's segment begins at 1:35:33.

🎙️ Listen here: Kayleigh Poacher - 30/09/2026 - BBC Sounds

Reconnect with the School:

·       CRCF Lunchtime Seminars. Register for our series of free online lunchtime seminars exploring the latest research and key issues affecting children, families and social work. Sessions feature speakers from UEA and leading institutions around the world. View upcoming events.

•      Social Work Annual Lecture. Join staff, students and alumni on Thursday 26 November 2026 for our annual lecture. Featuring an invited guest speaker, the event will explore a key issue shaping contemporary social work practice, research and education. Event Registration opens soon.

·       Social Work Conference. Coming Spring 2027. This will be a great opportunity to reconnect with alumni, meet UEA staff and emeritus professors and expand your professional network.

·        Alumni guest lectures - contribute your time, expertise, or support to help shape the future of social work education. Email social.work@uea.ac.uk to express your interest. 

Stay in touch with our School - Sign up to our mailing list and be the first to hear about the latest events in our CRCF Seminar series and keep up to date on our news.