Placement Futures

The Stay Connected programme supports students at every stage of their placement journey. From preparing for the workplace and building professional networks, to reflecting on your development and planning your return to university, you can access a range of resources designed to help you make the most of their placement experience. 

You can find the Stay Connected programme on the Personal Best app.

Start of your placement

At the start of your placement, you need to complete the following actions:

• Re-register with the University for Part I of your studies.
• Upload your completed induction checklist to Co-tutor within 21 days of starting your placement.
• Check your placement details are accurate on Co-tutor including contact details, placement location and start date.
• Familiarise yourself with the Loughborough Student Placement Charter, and your responsibilities as the placement student.
• Read through the dedicated Learn page for your diploma, so you are aware of your academic requirements and the deadlines.

During your placement

Throughout your placement year it is important you stay in contact with the University, and access any support you require:

• Check your Loughborough University email account regularly, as the University will primarily use this email address to contact you throughout the year.
• Make your School Placement Team, and Placement Tutor aware of any issues or problems that arise on placement.
• Keep your placement details up to date on Co-tutor.
• Act within the Terms and Conditions of Employment (or equivalent) agreed with your placement employer.
• Understand and work according to your placement employer’s ‘acceptable use of IT policy’.
• Take reasonable care of your own health and safety, and the health and safety of other people who may be affected by your actions.
• Hand in your required academic work in full and on time.

End of your placement

As you approach the end of your placement, you may want to prepare for your return to studies at Loughborough University:

• Complete any remaining academic work for your diploma.
• Arrange accommodation back in Loughborough for your return.
• Register your module choices for your return. Keep checking your emails as your School will email you when module choice is open. 

Your Placement Tutor will be your main contact throughout your placement year, and will conduct your placement visits:

• You should expect at least two visits with your Placement Tutor, these are usually conducted online i.e. phone, MS teams, Zoom or Skype, but you may request an in-person visit.
• Initiate contact with your Placement Tutor; their contact details will be listed on your Co-tutor. Reach out to them to arrange your visit, or if you would benefit from any additional support.
• Arrange a date for your placement visit; they will usually want to meet with your manager as well so check their availability and let your Placement Tutor know suitable times.
• Ensure your Placement Tutor has all the necessary information at the appropriate time.

Settling into a new placement role can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some top tips to help you adjust:

1. Prepare

• Research the company: Understand the company’s culture, values, and goals.
• Know your role: Be clear about your job description and responsibilities.
• Dress appropriately: Find out the dress code to ensure you dress suitably from day one.

2. Make a good first impression

• Be punctual: Arrive on time, or a bit early, every day.
• Be friendly and approachable: Smile, introduce yourself, and be open to meeting new people.

3. Learn the company culture

• Observe and adapt: Pay attention to how things are done and how your team works together.

4. Communication is key

• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification when needed and make notes!
• Listen actively: Show that you are engaged and interested in what others are saying.

5. Be proactive

• Take initiative: Look for opportunities to contribute beyond your immediate tasks.
• Seek feedback: Regularly ask for feedback to understand how you’re performing and where you can improve. This could from your manager, team members and mentor/buddy.

6. Build relationships

• Network: Get to know your colleagues and build professional relationships.
• Find a mentor: Look for someone who can support you throughout your placement; this may be a team member or another staff member.

7. Stay organised

• Keep track of tasks: Use tools like to-do lists, calendars, or apps to manage your tasks and deadlines.
• Prioritise: Focus on high-priority tasks and manage your time effectively. If you are struggling with your workload speak to your manager.

8. Adapt and be flexible

• Embrace change: Be prepared for priorities to change and adapt quickly.
• Be open to feedback: Accept constructive feedback positively and use it to improve and set goals for the remainder of your placement.

9. Maintain a positive attitude

• Stay enthusiastic: Show enthusiasm for your role, and company.
• Be Resilient: Don’t get discouraged by any mistakes you make; view them as learning opportunities.

10. Take care of yourself

• Balance work and life: Ensure you have time to relax and recharge outside of work.
• Access support: If you are struggling you can still access support through Student Services.

By following these tips, you can make a positive impression, integrate smoothly into your new role, and make the most out of your placement experience.