Education secretary Michael Gove has launched a new fast-track training programme for top graduates who want to become social workers.

The Frontline programme will begin recruiting in the autumn through a series of pilot schemes, with the training beginning in September 2014.

The pilots will offer 100 graduates two years' hands-on work in a local authority, alongside university-based study.

‘Today's announcement gives us an exciting opportunity to bring the best people into one of Britain's toughest jobs,' said Frontline chief executive, Josh MacAlister.

‘Frontline will be totally focused on recruiting and developing outstanding social workers to lead change for disadvantaged children.'

The chair of the Association of Director's of Children's Services' (ADCS) workforce development policy committee, Dave Hill, welcomed the announcement.

‘ADCS will continue to work with Frontline to shape and support the work, ensuring that the long-term impact of Frontline is a positive one that adds to the overall development of social work education by ensuring it provides sufficient breadth of experience and knowledge, and adheres to current regulations and good practice,' said Mr Hill.