A work placement aims to give students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a real working environment. It allows them to put theory studied in the classroom into practice and develop personal skills which will enhance their managerial potential.

The work placement aims to:

• give students a quality learning experience about the nature of work and characteristics of an organisation through direct experience and exchanges of views with colleagues;
• allow students to increase their self confidence and maturity with a more professional attitude to work; and
• allow students to gain an insight into their own abilities, attitudes and employment potential.

The employer's role

To make sure that students and employers get the most out of the placement experience, you will be asked to:

• allow the student to become fully involved with the work of your organisation as a valued and respected employee;
• provide us, and the student, with clear details of terms and conditions including hours of work and rates of pay;
• provide a clear role for the placement student with real work, giving them their own responsibilities;
• appoint a placement supervisor for the student who will give regular feedback to the student, and be available to meet their placement visitor at a mutually convenient time. They should also make sure a final report on the student is provided to us;  
• comply with administrative procedures, such as liability insurance and health and safety policies - information on this is can be found in the Health and safety section; and
• ensure the University is provided with a final report for us to assess the performance of our students.  

The student's role

Before the work placement, students will be given a comprehensive placement manual.

Students are expected to:

• relocate as necessary to take up a work placement;
• be aware of, and work to, the terms and conditions of employment;
• work conscientiously and make a positive contribution;
• undertake projects identified by you, in addition to any report writing requirements of the University; and
• recognise their responsibilities as an ambassador of the University.

How we can help

The University will provide:

• an outline for students on the general expectations of placement providers;
• academic support to the student in terms of relating their practical experience to their studies; and
• support and advice in managing a placement, particularly for new placement providers.

The work placement should last for a minimum of 48 working weeks. It takes place for undergraduate degree students after the second year of academic study and for HND and Postgraduate students after the first year of their course.

The work placement can be hosted at a maximum of two organisations, but only with the prior approval of the Placement Officer.

Further  information about the  benefits of employing a placement student can be found on the Sheffield Hallam University Employability website.