It is now broadly recognised that professional work placements form a valuable part of business training and preparation, both in professional and cultural contexts. BBSI was a pioneer in this field and has been providing work opportunities since 1996. The Institute has developed an outstanding reputation for quality of service in this field and can now provide accredited work placements in partnership with the national awarding body, NCFE*. The School has developed a wide network of both local and national businesses who accept international trainees, and BBSI works closely with these employers to ensure that trainees benefit fully from the often challenging experience of working in the UK.
Business English Study & Work Placement ProcessBBSI can arrange professional placements in industry, commerce, retail trades, and elsewhere. Such placements are suitable for trainees with an upper-Intermediate to Advanced level in English, who have work experience in their own country. The aim is for trainees to broaden their experience in a vocational environment, as well as hone their English-language skills, with a view to improving their careers, as well as their knowledge and experience. Placements are for up to 12 weeks duration, and would follow a minimum of 4 weeks Business English study at BBSI.
The choice of course to be studied, prior to each placement, is for each student to decide. However, BBSI would recommended the year-round 12-week Communications & Business Skills study programme, or one of our business or professional certificate, higher-certificate or diploma courses. Following their business and English training, trainees will be placed in work with a business that is complementary to their current or planned career. The work undertaken during the period of each placement is unpaid, and should be considered as part of the ongoing training programme. However, trainees must understand that they cannot specify a particular company or location. BBSI will closely monitor progress during the work placement to ensure that the experience is a satisfactory one for all concerned. We will also ensure that trainees receive appropriate references from their employers on completion.
Professional Work Placements
BBSI has previously provided placements in a wide range of fields, including the following:
- marketing
- healthcare
- travel agency
- hotels & catering
- local government
- electrics/electronics
- department stores
- international banking
Training Outcomes
On successful completion of a BBSI study and work-placement programme, trainees will be issued with a BBSI Certificate, Higher-Certificate, or Diploma in their chosen subject, a BBSI Certificate of Placement, and an NCFE Certificate of Work Placement. Each trainee will also be required to produce a Portfolio of Work to document their experiences. This documentation will serve individuals well in future employment applications. Respective employers will also provide work references.
Terms & ConditionsPlease note that the following terms and conditions apply for professional work placements:
- A particular work placement is not guaranteed and is subject to trainees successfully passing a job interview.
- Trainees must be as flexible as possible concerning the type of placement they are seeking.
- Should a trainee be successful at interview, that trianee is obligated to accept that work placement. Should an individual refuse the work, however, BBSI is under no obligation to arrange a further interview.
- Should a trainee be unsuccessful at a particular interview, BBSI will arrange further interviews, up to a maximum of 3 in total.
- Should a trainee be unsuccessful in all 3 work interviews, there will be no refund of course fees.
- Trainees must understand that, if placed in work successfully, they are representing BBSI and should act accordingly, with both integrity and professionalism.
- Trainees must understand that, if asked to leave their work placement for reasons of misconduct, BBSI will not find alternative work, nor will there be any refund of fees.