Social Work (Qualifying) Practical Experience
About the practical experience
Practice Learning, through extended work placements, is a core component of the program. Applicants must be available to undertake Practice Learning during normal work hours in both years of their degree. Applicants who envisage this may be difficult are encouraged to contact the Office of Field Education. The AASW requires students to complete two placements of 60 days (Practice Learning 1) and 80 days (Practice Learning 2). Students can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning in relation to Practice Learning 1.
Practice Learning at the University of Sydney aligns with the Australian National Field Education Network's statement on Field Education as the Distinctive Pedagogy of Social Work Education, promoting a community-of-learners’ model that aims to engage all key people in the provision of good learning opportunities in field practice to:
- provide students with a variety of professional practice tasks
- challenge students whilst providing peer and professional support
- develop knowledge and skills
- link theory and practice
- develop a professional identity
- develop critical reflection skills.
It is possible that Practice Learning will include placement with NSW Health, which involves mandatory checks and clearances that must be completed prior to commencement of the placement.
Contacts and further information
For information in relation to field placement, please visit the Field Education Manager on Level 7, Education building, A35
Email: