Why Work Placements Matter: How Industry Experience Builds Job-Ready Skills

Want to turn your study into career-ready skills? Work placements are one of the best ways to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. Whether you’re studying nursing, education, counselling or business, hands-on industry experience can make all the difference when you’re ready to enter the workforce.

Many courses in Australia now include a work placement, also known as a practicum, internship, field placement or clinical placement. Sometimes they’re optional, but often they’re a formal part of your qualification—especially in fields that are highly people-focused or regulated.

Work placements give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned, build your confidence, and even make connections that can lead to future job offers. Here’s why they’re worth it—and how to get the most out of yours.

What Is a Work Placement?

A work placement is a structured period of on-the-job experience built into your course. You may be shadowing professionals, assisting with day-to-day tasks, or even taking on responsibilities under supervision. Most placements are unpaid but come with the invaluable benefit of real-world learning.

Fields that commonly require work placements include:

Even if you’re studying online or by distance, many courses will include a practical component in your local area.

What Happens During a Work Placement?

Each placement is different depending on the industry and the organisation. Some involve observation, others include supervised practice with real clients or customers. You may be required to complete logbooks, submit reflections or undergo direct assessments.

For example, counselling students may undertake supervised face-to-face sessions, while business students might complete strategic tasks or contribute to projects in a company. In both cases, placements are supported by trained supervisors and academic staff to ensure a positive learning experience.

Real Student Experience

Pippa Sangster, a counselling student, completed her placement at a community centre and a bereavement counselling service. “However much I may have learnt through lectures and role plays, this is where I really learned to be a counsellor. Everything clicked into place when I worked with real clients,” she says.

How to Get a Work Placement

Most training providers support students in securing placements. Some have dedicated placement coordinators or employer networks. Others encourage students to find their own placements aligned with their career goals.

Institutions like the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS), offer structured industry training as part of their degrees. In fact, ICMS student Phil Watson took it a step further by creating his own placement—launching a sports consultancy business as part of his degree requirement.

Top Tips for Securing a Placement:

Start early—some industries have long lead times or limited spaces.
Use your provider’s placement office or contacts.
Look for organisations aligned with your career goals.
Make your CV and cover letter placement-ready.
Be proactive—network, reach out, and follow up professionally.

Will You Be Assessed?

Yes. Work placements typically include formal assessments to evaluate your progress and ensure learning outcomes are met. These may include:

Reflective journals or reports
Supervisor feedback
Practical assessments or checklists
Learning contracts or performance reviews

Assessment ensures you’re not just going through the motions—you’re actively developing the skills and mindsets needed for your future career.