Resources

The terms work, or industrial, placements or internships have various interpretations, but normally refer to a period of work experience which is part of a programme of study and may be paid or unpaid.

Prospects, the official UK graduate careers website, asked people who work in the field of work experience for a definition of quality work experience and the consensus was that:

• 'the student is trained by the higher education institution (HEI) to identify potential learning outcomes;
• objectives are set (by HEI, employer and student);
• supervision is by a supervisor trained in the objectives and learning outcomes of work experience - academic supervision and visit/s take place;
• regular feedback is given;
• an appraisal is given during the work experience and at the end;
• where appropriate, a project is undertaken;
• learning and achievements are articulated by the student in written form;
• an assessment is made, including an assessment of development of skills (by HEI, employer and student);
• recognition, credit or a certificate is awarded’

Prospects provides further information on work experience and opportunities for work experience both during and on completion of study programmes

The National Council for Work Experience (NCWE) ‘promotes, supports and develops quality work experience for the benefit of students, employers and the economy.’

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has produced a guide ‘Internships that work’ which gives employers guidance on providing internships.

Not what you were looking for?
Try Using the Search Box Above