Work-based learning
Work-based and placement learning guidelines
Work-based learning (WBL) and placements take a variety of forms and it is not, therefore, desirable to have a ‘one size fits all’ policy. The University's guidelines on work-based and placement learning are intended to be flexibly applied, depending on the nature of the work-based learning/placement, while clearly articulating minimum expected standards. The guidelines apply to all University of Essex provision.
Please contact the Quality and Academic Development team if you have any questions about the approval process. The Industry and Placements team can also offer advice on work-based and placement opportunities, including practice placements, as well as other initiatives to improve student employability, such as internships and the Breaking Barriers programme.
Fitness to Practise
(For students undertaking professional training courses)
All University students are required to comply with the regulations of the University regarding conduct. Students enrolled on courses where a practical professional placement is required (including health, social work and education) have additional responsibilities placed upon them regarding not only their conduct but also their professional suitability, as outlined in relevant professional body codes of practice. Failure to meet these responsibilities can lead to the Fitness to Practise (for students undertaking professional training courses) being invoked. Students will be notified on enrolment if their course of study is subject to the terms of this procedure.
Placement Learning Whistleblowing procedure
This procedure applies to all students registered on courses involving professional practice placements, including health, social work and education. The procedure supplements the University’s general Whistleblowing Policy. It relates to incidents occurring when on placement which contravene relevant professional codes of practice, whether or not they are directly related to the educational process and whether they involve a colleague or an employer.
