Benefits of hosting a La Trobe University Student

Find out more about the benefits of placements for both La Trobe University's industry partners and students:

• National Australia Bank (NAB)
• Australia Zoo
• Royal Nut Company

1. Which industries are covered by WIL programs?

Most industries can benefit from participating in WIL. While some professional fields such as nursing, teaching and engineering have a long history of structured work integrated learning associated with professional accreditation requirements, WIL is increasingly becoming a feature of higher education courses across all fields of study.

2. How will it help my organisation?

The mentoring you give to a student can help you in many ways. The extra pair of hands will immediately help with resourcing a project, your employees who mentor the student learn valuable management skills and, you are helping to improve the quality of graduates available to your industry.

3. How much time do I need to commit to WIL?

Typically, La Trobe University students work 100 to 200 hours in host organisations depending on subject requirements. This may range from 1 to 2 days per week during a standard semester (Semester 1 February-July, Semester 2 July-October) or full time for 3 to 4 weeks during the Summer Semester.

Your staff's involvement will vary depending on the student's project whilst undertaking the placement.  There will be some supervising and mentoring requirements which we'll discuss with you before we place students within your organisation.

4. Am I expected to remunerate students for their services?

The majority of WIL experiences are unpaid.  If you would like to remunerate students for their expenses, this can be discussed.

5. Does La Trobe University provide insurance for students undertaking WIL?

Yes. Students are covered by La Trobe University’s insurance policy while on placement. This is applicable once there is a fully executed WBL Agreement in place.  Host organisations must also hold public liability insurance to the minimum value of $10 million AUD.

6. What do I have to provide the student?

You should provide a rewarding workplace experience for the student which includes the tools they need to do their best work. This would include a safe workspace, suitable equipment and appropriate mentoring and supervision.

7. When can students undertake WIL?

Most WIL opportunities are scheduled at times of the year to fit annual course structures.

If the placement is part of their course, students usually complete it within the academic calendar:

• Summer Semester: late November – mid February

• Semester 1: late February – early June

• Semester 2: late July – late October

8. Who determines the students' WIL duties?

The host organisation determines the WIL student duties.  The scope of the role and project will need to be approved by the student's Subject Coordinator, to ensure that it fits with the overall academic expectations of the placement. Any work allocated needs to be at a level usually undertaken by a graduate in the field.

9. How do I access support whilst I am supervising students on placement? 

La Trobe industry partners (hosts) are provided with a WBL Host Organisation Guide which outlines responsibilities, expectations and support available. In addition, hosts are provided with an academic point of contact as part of the placement confirmation process.