If you’re on this page, you probably need to do a work placement as part of your course requirements. Workplace learning support is for all of you who are setting out on workplace learning as a compulsory component of your course. Although it’s up to you to find your own work placement, we’re here to give you a helping hand and take you through the necessary steps. Here’s a quick overview of what it’s all about.
What is Structured Workplace Learning?
We call work placement ‘Structured Workplace Learning’ or SWL. We call it that because, as opposed to ‘work experience’, it’s structured in a way that ensures that you learn everything you need to fulfill your course requirements.
What are workplace support officers?
Workplace support officers are the people at Open Colleges who can help you with any issues you face when you’re looking for a work placement. If you want to speak to a workplace support officer, call the student support team on 1300 650 011 or email them studentsupport@opencolleges.edu.au.
What is the Structured Workplace Learning Support Kit?
The Structured Workplace Learning Support Kit is a resource we’ve put together for you to answer all your questions about work placement. It contains advice about how to find and approach a workplace to do your placement (a host organisation), as well as lots of tips for preparing for and attending your interview.
What’s the difference between an assessment centre and a work placement centre?
At assessment centres, a workplace assessor is on site to assess and supervise you. At work placement centres, there is a remote assessor and the workplace has its own supervisor.
When should I start looking for a work placement?
It’s best to begin looking for a suitable work placement in study period 1 even though, in most cases, you won’t be starting your work placement until the second half of your course. Check your course overview for more specific instructions.
Where would be the best place to do my work placement?
Your course Workplace Assessment Guide, which you’ll find in your course materials on OpenSpace, will tell you which types of workplaces would be suitable for you to do your work placement. This will help you to think about where you’d prefer to do your placement and what organisations might be available to you. You’ll also need to work out how you’ll fit your work placement into your current life circumstances.
How do I get started with finding a work placement?
Start to research some potential workplaces to do your placement, then identify and list which ones you plan to contact. Once you have a list, you can use our template Introduction letter to make your initial contact. Give your potential workplace two or three days before following up with a phone call using the example script we’ve provided for you.
Will I be insured at my learning workplace?
During all your work placement hours, you will be insured for personal accidents under our student insurance policy.
Getting started with workplace learning
We suggest you follow the steps below to get started:
Preparation
- Read about what is required for your course in the Workplace Assessment Guide which is typically provided in your first study period in OpenSpace.
- Download the Structured Workplace Learning Support Kit onto your computer for tips, strategies and interactive tools to assist in finding a suitable work placement.
- Read the Structured Workplace Learning Support FAQs
- Need further help? Contact our student support team who can refer you to a workplace support officer.
Once you have secured a workplace:
- Submit your Workplace Assessment Approval Form which is provided typically in the first study period in OpenSpace. For some courses this may vary.
- A Workplace Assessor will then be in contact with you to discuss the next steps.
Student Insurance Policy
Show your Workplace Insurance Certificate to your prospective work placement supervisor or interviewer so that they understand that you’re covered for accidents while you work with them.