Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I change or refuse a placement if I'm unhappy with it?

Placement changes are not normally permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances. Any request for a change must be approved by both the Partnership Lead and your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT). You would also need to complete an Exceptional Circumstances form. If you choose to refuse a placement, this can delay your progress, and in some cases, you may need to defer and complete the placement in the next academic year. For this reason, it's important to speak with your PAT and the Placement Team as early as possible. 

• Can I arrange my own placement? 

No. Trainees should not organise placements independently. All placements must be arranged and confirmed by the Placement Team, who manage all logistics and administration. If a trainee becomes aware of a potential placement that is able to support them, they must inform the Placement Team immediately so that the necessary checks and arrangements can be made. The placement will not be agreed or approved until it has been officially confirmed back to the trainee by the Placement Team. In some situations, the Placement Team may contact you to ask whether you have any existing connections, or they may request that you contact a provider, but this will only occur if the Placement Team specifically asks you to do so. 

• How will my placement be allocated? 

Placement allocation is a complex process that requires time and careful planning. Placements are arranged based on your geographical location and within the expected commute time of up to 90 minutes. If we are unable to secure a placement close to your home address, you may be placed in a school that is within easy reach of the University. 

• When will I find out about my placement? 

You will normally receive your placement details around 10 working days before your placement begins, wherever possible. This information will be sent to your University email.

• Can I request a specific subject area/teaching level? 

You may express preference, but placements depend on availability, your subject specialism, travel considerations, and capacity within the provider. Requests cannot be guaranteed. 

• How can I navigate my route to placement? 

To plan your journey, we recommend using Google Maps or another journey planning app/website to check the best route and travel times. You should also look at local bus and train operators' websites for the most up-to-date information on timetables, routes, and any service. Checking your journey in advance will help you feel prepared and ensure you arrive on time for your placement.

• What if the placement setting withdraws my placement?

If the placement is withdrawn due to the trainee's professionalism or misconduct, the Fitness to Practice procedure will be implemented. If the setting withdraws a placement due to staffing or changes of circumstances, then a new placement will be sourced as early as possible. 

• What are my expected placement attendance hours? 

Placement hours within Lifelong Learning are not fixed. They are agreed collaboratively between the trainee, the placement mentor, and the setting in line with the provider's timetable. You are expected to complete 250 placement hours in total, which much include 150 teaching hours. 

• Will work/family commitments outside of University be considered within my placement allocation? 

Unfortunately, we are unable to consider any work/family commitments during our allocation processes. You will be expected to attend your placement for the full day designated by your placement school.

• Where can I find the Placement Team?

You can come and see us in the Charles Sykes Building on the University Queensgate Campus, we are based within CS1/06.