PARENT INFORMATION / RESOURCE
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•  Student / Parent Guide (DEST)

 
 

What is workplacement?

Workplacement involves Year 11 or Year 12 Students who are studying an industry-recognised course either at school, TAFE or at a registered training organisation. The student is required to attend a business to gain practical experience, skills and knowledge about the industry. Through these workplacements, the students gain relevant industry accredited training before they leave school, with most completing the HSC and gaining a certificate which can be the basis for further training upon leaving school.

Does my son/daughter need to complete workplacement?

Every student who studies a VET course must complete a compulsory workplacement. The workplacement component of VET courses are designed to give students the chance to put into practice the skills that they learn in the classroom and to learn new skills!

Where can my son/daughter complete their workplacement?

The workplacement is undertaken with local employers in actual workplaces. The students can complete their workplacement out of the local area if they are prepared to travel and have suitable accommodation. Students can choose their employers or an employer can be found on their behalf.

Who is responsible for Travel Arrangements?

The student is responsible for the organisation and cost of their travel to and from the location of their workplacement. Parents & caregivers must assist students to choose their workplacement carefully and to take into account the travel which would be required.

Who organises the workplacement?

Workplacements for Shoalhaven students are organised through the Student Workplace Learning Program (SWLP). The program’s co-ordinators liaise with students, teachers, schools and employers to ensure that every student undertaking a VET course experiences a quality and beneficial workplacement.
 
When does workplacement occur and what is the duration

Workplacements generally occur during Year 11 in the latter half of the year. Students complete a minimum of 35 hours in the workplace and work the same hours as their employers. The number of hours your son/daughter is required to complete will depend on their VET course and if they are intending to continue the course into year 12.

They are treated as employees and get to undertake real tasks for their employer. Workplacements usually take place on weekdays with attendance dictated by normal industry hours.

What Protection is provided for my son/daughter?

The Department of Education and Training has a number of provisions which provide protection for both students and employers. The School or TAFE retains the duty of care while the students are participating in workplace learning programs with host employers.
The appropriate Student Placement Record must be signed by all parties including the student, parent or caregiver, school and employer. The provisions include:

  • Coverage for students injured while on workplace learning
  • Protection for the employers in the event of a claim against them as a result of injury to a student or damage to property caused by a student
  • Compensation for damage to an employer’s property caused by a workplace learning student.

“Child Protection” is of the highest importance to the Department of Education and Training. Employers that host students are required to ensure that all staff are aware of the special responsibilities associated with working with students. Any conduct of a sexual nature with a student is not accepted and will result in appropriate action being taken.
Workplacement Co-ordinators are there to help with any problems students may encounter on their workplacement.

How does workplacement benefit my son/daughter?
  • Students gain vital knowledge about the world of work
  • They learn general work skills & specific industry skills relating to their course
  • They experience adult roles & responsibilities
  • It helps to manage the transition from school to further education, training & work.
  • Workplacements enable students to make informed career decisions.
  • Students get to try out a career before they decide if it is really what they want to do!
  • Many students undertaking workplacements are offered part-time work, traineeships or apprenticeships following their workplace experience.