Sandra Shaw

Sandra Shaw is the Head of Social Work and Social Care Partnerships at the University of Wolverhampton, part of the Faculty of Education, Health & Wellbeing. With 22 years of experience in adult services focusing on individuals with learning disabilities, she transitioned from frontline care to academic roles, including Senior Lecturer and temporary Head positions. Her expertise spans social work practice education, placement management, and qualitative research methodologies.

Education:

• PhD (in progress) – Social Work and Social Care
• PGCE in Higher Education and Professional Practice (2016)
• MSc in Health and Social Care (2015)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health and Social Care (1992)
• Diploma in Social Work (2000)

Research Interests: Focuses on the administration and management of social work placements, qualitative research, and case study methodologies. Current PhD research explores challenges in practice education units and placement capacity.

Professional Memberships:

• Registered with Social Work England (SW66158)
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (PR112094)

Placement Leadership: Oversees practice learning provision, collaborates with external partners to expand placement opportunities, and ensures alignment between academic and fieldwork training for social work students.