The transitions between university and the world of work remain a key concern for policy makers and practitioners across the UK nations and beyond.  Work placements and internships have become an increasingly significant focus of activity, aiming to ‘bridge’ the gap between study and work.  What different approaches have been taken across the UK nations and by different universities?  What impact do such initiatives have on student learning experiences and skills development, on employment / employability outcomes, and for host employers?

The day-conference will provide an opportunity to share research insights and practice-related learning through a series of conference-style presentations and round table discussions. This event is co-hosted by Third Sector Internships Scotland, Queen Margaret University and The Open University in Scotland. 

Keynote speaker:          Professor Alice Brown, Chair Scottish Funding Council

Contributors:                

·         Olivia Jones, National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB)

·         Tone Cecilie Carlsten, Nordic Institute for Studies in Innovation, Research and Education (NIFU)

·         Dr Ruth Helyer, Social Futures Institute, Teesside University

·         Dr Martha Caddell, The Open University in Scotland and Margaret Wallace, Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO),  Third Sector Internships Scotland

·         Dr Peter Green, University of Ulster

·         Colin Smith, Edinburgh Napier University,  ePlacement Scotland

·         Dr David Thompson, University of Wolverhampton

·         Dr Jon Turner, University of Edinburgh, Making the Most of Masters

 If you are currently working on research into any kind of employability, enterprise and work-based learning and would like to share your work at later events, please contact us on h.e.higson@aston.ac.uk

Convenors:

Professor Helen E Higson OBE, Professor of Higher Education Learning and Management, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Aston University

Dr Richard Blackwell, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Southampton Solent University

Organiser: