Whilst Sandwich placements have been part of higher education degree programmes for many years the sector is now seeing a proliferation of work-based learning experiences along with an increasing variety of interactions with employers.
Sandwich placements usually form part of the degree assessment with clear guidelines on expectations. However the proliferation of work experiences means that opportunities may be arranged where there is not a clear indication of the skills and competencies that a student can bring and the work that they may undertake.
This study is extremely relevant as it provides clarification of the competencies of students of different levels coming into placements thereby managing the expectations of both host and student and resulting in a more successful partnership.
The study focuses on Biosciences however the methodology and the framework developed can be adapted and used in any discipline area.
