An Analysis of Models for Work Placement Provision

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) has a proven track record in delivering a range of work-related learning to a significant proportion of its students. Supported by a 100+ strong central Employability and Enterprise (EE) Team, along with the university’s academic staff, approximately 50% of NTU students experience work-related learning through activities such as placements, internships and real-life projects.

NTU launched its 5-year strategic plan – ‘Creating the University of the Future’ – in June 2015. One of its 5 key themes is ‘Creating Opportunity’ and this has shaped the EE Team’s direction and priorities. The team’s vision is “to be an Employability Service that assists students with the development of employability skills as an integral part of their academic study enabling them to prosper.”

In line with Curriculum Refresh, the university’s Pro-Vice Chancellor for Employer and Economic Engagement commissioned this study to explore the most effective ways in which the university could achieve its strategic goal of increasing the proportion of its students who experience work-related learning to 100% within the next 2-3 years. In order to achieve this goal, the EE Team has set an institutional target of increasing the number of work placements delivered from the current level of 2,500 to 5,000+.