ASW is required training delivered to social workers employed by the Aboriginal Child and Family Services Agencies in BC. This training combines "best practice' in Aboriginal child welfare with the Provincial Legislation and Standards. The curriculum for the training is built upon a competency-based model of training which incorporates competencies and skills that an individual must possess in order to carry out the various responsibilities of a Voluntary Services, Guardianship and Child Protection delegated social worker. The Aboriginal Social Work training incorporates the Aboriginal Operational and Practice Standards and Indicators (AOPSI) – the practice standards of First Nations Child and Family Service Agencies. Each week of comprehensive classroom instruction is enhanced by a week of field practice. The field component builds on the classroom experience and grounds practice within the Agency setting. The uniqueness of this program is that the training is placed within the context of the First Nations and Aboriginal Child and Family Service Agency and Aboriginal communities and culture.
