From Essex graduate to national social work award nominee

Essex graduate Anthony Achebe has earned special recognition for an outstanding start to his career in social work by being shortlisted in the Social Worker of the Year Awards.

Anthony is in the running for the Newly Qualified Adult Social Worker Award thanks to his hard work for Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.

We caught up with Anthony following this exciting news to see how Essex prepared him for a career in social work and what advice he would share:

What was the best thing about studying Social Work at Essex?

The best thing about studying Social Work at Essex was the incredibly supportive and inclusive learning environment. The lecturers were not only knowledgeable but genuinely invested in our development, always encouraging us to challenge ourselves and grow. The diversity of the student body brought a richness to classroom discussions, allowing us to explore social issues from multiple perspectives.

Essex also offered excellent placement opportunities that helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving me the chance to apply what I learned in real-world settings. The university instilled in me a strong sense of purpose and professionalism, which has been instrumental in my journey from student to practitioner and now to team leader.

How did Essex prepare you for your career?

Studying at Essex gave me a strong foundation in both theory and practice. The course emphasized reflective practice, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making, which are essential in social work.

The placements were particularly valuable, they exposed me to real-world challenges and helped me build confidence in my professional role. The values and discipline I developed at Essex especially around accountability, self-motivation, and professional integrity have stayed with me and directly contributed to my career progression.

How have you found your first year as a Social Worker?

My first year as a Social Worker was both challenging and deeply rewarding. I made a conscious effort to apply myself fully, taking initiative, staying organized, and being proactive in learning. I utilized supervision effectively, treating it as a space for reflection, growth, and guidance. I also took every opportunity to shadow more experienced colleagues, which helped me gain practical insights and build confidence in handling complex cases.

These experiences shaped my approach and helped me develop a strong professional identity rooted in empathy, resilience, and accountability. Within two years of qualifying, I was able to step up into a managerial role as a Team Leader—something I attribute to the work ethic and professional values I cultivated during my time at Essex.

What does it mean to you to be shortlisted in the Social Worker of the Year awards?

Being shortlisted for the Social Worker of the Year awards is a tremendous honour. It’s incredibly validating to know that the work I do has had such a positive impact, it reinforces exactly why I chose this profession. Social work can be tough, but moments like this remind me that the effort, compassion, and dedication truly make a difference.

It also reflects the support I’ve received from my team and mentors, and I’m proud to represent the values and commitment that Essex instilled in me. Knowing that my work has made a meaningful difference in people’s lives is the most powerful motivation to keep going.

What would your advice be to anyone thinking of studying Social Work at Essex?

Go for it! Essex offers a rich and supportive learning experience. Be prepared to challenge yourself, reflect deeply, and grow both personally and professionally. Social work is demanding, but if you’re passionate about making a difference, Essex is a great place to start. The course equips you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the field and the community you build along the way will stay with you throughout your career.