Nursery students policy

At University of Dundee Day Nursery Ltd, we are committed to sharing good practice with those wishing to pursue a career in childcare. We welcome students into our staff team to gain work experience within our nursery. We welcome the chance to encourage training. We will accept up to 4 student(s) at any one time as more students than this places undue pressure on staff. We do, however, accept small groups or occasional placements when research or studies are being carried out that will be of benefit to childcare.

We will offer placements to students who are associated with a recognised child-related course such as HNC level, or on occasions, pupils from local secondary schools on work experience. We offer placements only after discussions with the appropriate tutors and the establishment of close links with the college or school.

We expect all students to visit the nursery for an interview, followed by their student induction and nursery tour. At this time, students will have the opportunity to read and discuss relevant health and safety policies, receive a copy of the Student Handbook, and sign their contract in readiness for their first day.

Our policy for those on placements is as follows:

• All students will have registered with the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check before their placement begins
• All students are assigned a mentor who will supervise their work and explain the health, safety, and fire requirements of the nursery
• Students will always be supervised by members of staff within the room and will not be left alone with the children. They will only change nappies under supervision
• Students will be supported to understand nursery policies and procedures
• We require students to keep to our confidentiality policy
• It is expected that during the student’s placement, their tutor will visit the nursery or have verbal communication with the students’ mentor to receive feedback about the student’s progress
• Students will be offered support and guidance throughout their placement and given constructive honest feedback in respect of their performance. Staff will respect individual students’ needs and abilities
• An accurate evaluation of ability and performance for both students and training providers will be provided, and the nursery will support students who are experiencing difficulties with action plans if needed
• To maintain parent partnerships, parents will be informed when students are present in the nursery e.g. via the weekly newsletter. Wherever possible this will be accompanied by a recent photograph of the student
• All students on placement must adhere to the same codes of conduct as permanent staff including timekeeping and dress codes
• All students are encouraged to contribute fully to the nursery routine and to spend some time in each area. Students must not be left alone with children, and they should only be allowed to change nappies when supervised.
• All students are required to attend room and full staff meetings.

In some cases, we may include students on long term placements (aged 17 and over) and staff working as apprentices in early education (aged 16 and over) in our staff: child ratios. This will be the discretion of the manager and only will only occur when the manager is satisfied the student/apprentice is competent and responsible.

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