What is Structured Workplace Learning?
Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) is a compulsory component of the School Based Vocational HSC courses that are recognised by both industry and the Board of Studies. It is a one week (35hours) mandatory Workplacement in industry to enhance skills learned in the classroom.
The Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) Programme provides students with a better understanding of the world of work and the opportunity to develop their technical and employability skills in any of the Board Endorsed Vocational Courses.
Download Framework Brochures
Automotive
Business Services
Building & Construction
Children's Services
Electrotechnology
Entertainment
Hospitality Commercial Cookery
Hospitality Food & Beverage
Information Technology
Primary Industries
Retail
Tourism
Metals & Engineering
Student Suggested Activities
Automotive
Business Services
Building & Construction
Children's Services
Electrotechnology
Entertainment
Hospitality
Information Technology
Primary Industries
Retail
Tourism
Metals & Engineering
Do students get paid?
Students do not get paid for Workplacement, they are volunteer workers. It is important that students are not paid as any payment to the student may invalidate insurance and indemnity arrangements.
Features of Structured Workplace Learning
- Students are supervised by an employer
- Students are able to participate in real work
- Students are expected to dress and behave in the same way as an employee
- Students are instructed and shown how to do certain tasks
- Students have the opportunity to practice skills learnt in the classroom
- Students are assessed in the workplace
- Insurance is provided for the students
Benefits of SWL for students
- Gaining their HSC and a National industry recognised qualification
- Developing their skills through real workplace experience
- Practicing what they are learning in class
- Contextualising theory so that their learning is more meaningful
- Access to business technology and personnel
- Establishing links with industry to assist in “real life” educational opportunities
- Creating an easier transition to work
- Improving self-esteem and self-confidence
Why Should Employers be Involved?
We recognise that employers have well developed current skills and experience within their industry which can provide opportunities to enhance young people’s learning.
Employer’s have the opportunity through Workplacement to:
- Address their current and future skill needs for their industry.
- Provide the opportunity for students to gain up to date knowledge that is relevant to the industry.
- Give students a chance to try out the industry.
- Provide a greater pool of candidates for recruitment of current and future vacancies.
- For example some employers have been so impressed with their Workplacement student they have offered students part time work or apprenticeships at the end of their HSC school year.
In addition to work related skills, students have the opportunity to gain other skills including:
- Communication skills in the workplace.
- Working in a team environment.
- Developing social and interpersonal skills.
- Enhancing students confidence and independence in the work environment.
Benefits of SWL for Employers
- Contributing to your community and raising your profile.
- Raising awareness of your business and ensuring students and their families become aware of your products and employee relations.
- Increasing understanding & awareness about the skill needs of your industry and business.
- Correcting out-of-date and inaccurate perceptions about your industry.
- Creating opportunities to contribute to School programs by providing practical industry experience.
- The opportunity to recruit school students whilst they are still at school through school based
- New Apprenticeships or part-time employment.
- Providing existing employees with management and training development opportunities.
Policy Documents
All employers participating in an approved workplace learning program are covered by insurance for injury to students that has occurred at an approved host organisation.
DET Parents Guide to Workplace Learning
CEO Parents guide to Workplace Learning
Digital Finery.