Before Going On Placement

Placement is a key part of your teacher training journey. This page outlines what to expect before your placement begins and how to prepare effectively.

Placements are a compulsory part of your course and are carefully organised to support your development as a teacher.

How placements are allocated

• Placements are allocated based on course requirements and the availability of suitable schools within our partnership.
• While we recognise that students may have personal commitments (such as childcare, employment, or transport arrangements). Unfortunately, although we aim to support where possible, we are generally unable to cater to specific start times and allocations based on personal commitments.
• Placements are typically arranged within our partnership area (Huddersfield and surrounding areas). You may be required to travel outside your immediate locality to complete your placement.

Receiving your placement details

• You will usually receive your placement information approximately 10 working days before your placement start date. This will be sent to your university email account, so it is essential that you check regularly.
• Your placement information will include:
• The name and location of your school
• Key contact details
• Your placement start date

Making Initial Contact

You will be advised by your Course Leader or Personal Academic Tutor on when and how to make initial contact with your placement school. It is important that you follow this guidance carefully.

Preparing for Your Placement

• Ensure all enrolment clearances are met, Health and DBS clearances.
• Complete and upload HAYS Safeguarding, Prevent Training, and confirm reading KCISE (Keeping Children Safe in Education) to your online portfolio.
• Ensure you read the schools most recent Ofsted report and have familiarised with the school’s website including the ethos, values and policies.

Travel Expectations

We aim for placements to be within approximately 90 minutes travel time each way from your term-time address. However, this may vary depending on availability and course requirements.

You are responsible for:

• Organising your own travel
• Allowing additional time for delays (e.g. peak travel times)
• Following the schools absence and attendance policy whilst also informing your Personal Academic Tutor of any absences or lateness.

Keeping Your Details Updated

It is important that you inform the Placement Team of any changes to your address or transport arrangements as soon as possible. Late changes may limit our ability to adjust your placement.

Accepting Your Placement

Placements are a required part of your course. Refusal to attend or withdrawal from a placement without exceptional circumstances may result in delays to your progression and, in some cases, deferral to a later date.