Student Social Worker of the Year

Solomon Tugbiyele has shown incredible determination and commitment to achieve his goal of becoming a social worker.

He started this journey as a student full of self-doubt about his ability to complete the more academic elements of the course due to dyslexia. He will be completing it having passed all modules with distinction, graduating with first class honours.

Solomon’s skills really shone on placement. At his first, in a rural primary school, he was credited with being instrumental in changing the school culture and delivering an anti-racist whole-school initiative. He also helped to demystify social work by spending time at the school gates, using his calm and warm approach to engage with families.

Solomon made an equally good impression working in adult social care. In one case, he successfully supported a couple to overcome a carer crisis until more formal provision could be arranged. The couple praised Solomon for his ability to nurture, care for and work in partnership with them. He also received high praise from colleagues for his composure and professionalism in handling the sudden loss of a service user.

Described by his educators as outstanding, memorable and ‘all that a practice educator could wish for’, Solomon was a stand out candidate for this year’s award.

Supported by Torbay Council