Work placements for higher education students are particularly important in the arts and cultural sector, and play a central role in promoting students’ employability.
This research commissioned by ECU found that some groups, particularly disabled students, black and minority ethnic students, those with caring responsibilities and students from disadvantaged backgrounds face significant barriers to accessing and benefiting from work placements.
This report presents the research findings and makes recommendations for change. The findings are drawn from interviews with students on work placements, staff from higher education institutions and employers in the arts and cultural sector.
The report was written and researched by Dr Kim Allen, Professor Jocey Quinn, Sumi Hollingworth and Dr Anthea Rose from the Institute for Policy Studies in Education, London Metropolitan University.
Toolkits for placement staff and students looking for work placements
Practical leaflets have been prepared specifically for careers and placement staff, and for students looking to undertake a work placement in the arts and cultural sector.
The leaflets raise awareness of the equality issues and barriers facing students hoping to access work placements, outline how staff can support students to find and make the most of placements, and help students to have successful placement experiences.
Work placements in the creative industries: good placements for all students – Staff and Student toolkits
