Sheffield Institute of Education short placements

Our students develop a wide variety of transferable skills during their studies that are relevant to health, education, psychology, social work, counselling, housing, public health and the civil service. This includes the private, voluntary, independent and community sector. They bring the latest thinking to your organisation, activities include; working directly with children, young people and families, research and project work. Our students are keen to work in an area relevant to their degree and future career aspirations.

Placement timings vary depending on the course typically run October to December and January to March, 2 days per week for approximately 7 weeks with the addition of one or two block weeks. We aim for these placements to be face to face as much as possible but can negotiate a blended approach. We place students in a wide range of statutory and voluntary organisations.  Our students are supported to be able to work on site and remotely to meet employer need.

  • Examples of previous placements;
    • Working as a hospital play specialist working alongside the team to develop bespoke play practice using current play research for a range of ages.
    • Developing an outdoor space for a new community nursery in collaboration with architecture students. This project was supported by academics and involved collaboration with practitioners and key stakeholders.
    • Undertaking community support work for a Sheffield Football club. Leading and supporting sessions for young people on a range of sports, social and community work.
    • Planning and leading sessions for an after-school science business. A hybrid approach with office-based planning and support teamed with leading sessions in a wide range of South Yorkshire Schools.
    • Visiting family homes alongside outreach workers to provide support with children with special educational needs and disabilities. This involved planning visits, working face to face with parents and children, giving appropriate advice on children’s services and observing practice to develop their own skills.
    • Supporting sessions for vulnerable mothers at drop-in sessions where childcare support is also available. Sessions would include dealing with domestic violence, drug addictions and financial support available.

What are the courses involved?

  • BA(Hons) Early Childhood Studies. This course explores the lives of young children and their families from conception to the age of 8 years old in the UK and from a global context. Modules include aspects of health and well-being, safeguarding, play and advocacy.
  • BA(Hons) Childhood Studies which includes modules covering topics such as play, education, policy, youth justice and inclusion, with accredited work-related learning. The key focus is on children aged 8-19+.
  • BA (Hons) Education, Psychology and Counselling takes a critical approach to the study of education, psychology and counselling with a particular focus on social justice in educational contexts.
  • BA (Hons) Education with Autism, Disability and Special Educational Needs. For many people, education can be a challenge. This course allows students to explore new perspectives and make a real difference to people’s lives.

When do they happen?

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies –   October and November/ January – April – including 3 block weeks and 8 x 2days a week

BA (Hons) Childhood Studies –  October and November only / 1 block week and 5 x2 days

BA (Hons) Education, Psychology and Counselling –  February and March, 7×2 days

BA (Hons) Education with Autism, Disability and Special Educational Needs February and March 7×2 days

How do I apply?

Please register your interest via the application form – https://unihub.shu.ac.uk/Form.aspx?id=1313848

Anything else I need to know? Please take a look at our FAQs for common questions.