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Placements

What are Placements?

A placement is a fantastic way to gain insight into a particular career. It can also be a valuable way of getting some confidence and experience in working in a team and caring for people. A placement is any time spent in a health and care setting to gain an insight into what it is like to work in that environment. Depending on the type of placement they may last anything from one day up to a year. There are lots of different types of placement on offer across the south west and not all employers will be able to offer all the placements.

Some examples of placements include:

  • Work Experience – a great opportunity to learn more about the various roles. These placements are usually 1 – 5 days
  • T Levels/College – these are longer-term placements and are part of a recognised qualification
  • University/Higher Education Institution (HEI) – these placements are often called elective placements and are an important part of many degree courses
  • Internships/Supported Internships/Traineeships – this is an ideal way to get started in a career in health and care

To find out more about the work experience placements available in the South West please click here

FAQs
  • Do you get paid for work experience?

    No – unfortunately, we are not able to pay students when they attend for work experience.

  • Can I get work experience in any department?

    Every healthcare provider is unique and will have different criteria that students must meet. For example, some employers will ask students to be over 18 for specific placements, and some areas will be completely off-limits. In addition, sometimes areas may be temporarily unavailable because they are facing staffing shortages. Our patients/clients are our priority, and we may not be able to give you the quality of placement you deserve, so we would prefer you to come at a different time. Also, as Covid has shown us, it may be necessary to cancel placements at very short notice due to unforeseen circumstances.

  • What is the minimum age for a work experience placement?

    The minimum age for work will depend on the healthcare provider. Still, many employers understand the importance of welcoming young people into their organisation and will have programmes and opportunities specifically for young people that need it, e.g. Year 10 students.

  • I already have a job but am looking to change my career - can I still apply for work experience?

    Yes, of course – we would love to meet you and showcase all the fantastic opportunities we offer in health and social care. In addition, you will have many transferable skills to bring to the team – you will soon become a valuable asset to our workforce.

  • What is the difference between an Internship and a traineeship?

    An internship is usually an unpaid opportunity to get work experience in a specific career. This can be part of a sandwich degree course as your year in industry. A traineeship is part of a structured training programme to help you move on to an apprenticeship or paid employment.

  • What is the difference between a traineeship and an apprenticeship?

    A traineeship is usually for about six months, but an apprenticeship is generally for 18 – 24 months depending on the level of the apprenticeship. The traineeship will help give you the skills you need to move on to an apprenticeship. However, you may not get paid for a traineeship but will receive a wage for an apprenticeship.

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