Social Work Education in England and Spain: a Comparison of Contemporary Developments

Abstract

This paper explores the influences of globalisation on social work education reforms in England and Spain. It will argue that global changes exemplified by European convergence in respect of Higher Education have had a more explicit influence on the Spanish proposals for change than on the current English reforms. It will also argue that whilst both sets of reforms appear to be addressing some of the common professional issues brought to the fore by the new global complexity influencing social work, the English reforms have been driven by more ‘domestic’ concerns about competence, professional standards and accountability. Evidence supporting these arguments is explored and analysed.