Work-based learning

Overview

Work-based learning provides structured, real-world experiences that build skills, confidence and clarity about work expectations and career interests. It is important because it bridges the gap between education, training and employment, offering practical pathways into paid work and providing employers with evidence of the skills and abilities of the jobseeker.  

Learning on the job is important because it allows people with disability to continue developing skills, adapt to changing job demands and maintain meaningful employment over time. Continued learning supports career development, self‑advocacy and self‑awareness, as individuals better understand their strengths, support needs and how to request adjustments.^{2 3 4}

Evidence shows that best results come from combining formal training with on-the-job learning and experience. Classroom-based learning alone is less effective.^{5 6} Work-based learning can be formal – part of a formal vocational, education or training experience, or informal – part of career and/or skill development for jobseekers.

Types of work-based learning

• On-the-job training
  This involves continual improvement and ongoing skill development, in both employability and technical skills,once in the job. 
• Work Integrated Learning (WIL) 
  This is workplace experience formally embedded into the curriculum, integrating academic study with workplace/industry experiences such as professional placements, industry‑based projects, fieldwork and clinical placements.⁷
• Work exposure 
  These are short-term placements designed for people to build workplace skills, and gain a better understanding of the workplace and potential career opportunities. This could include work placements, job shadowing, simulation or industry projects.  Workforce Australia offers short-term, unpaid Observational Work Experience placements(Opens in a new tab/window).
• Apprenticeships 
  These can include:
  • pre-apprenticeships – a pathway into an apprenticeship through entry-level training
  • Australian School-based Apprenticeships(Opens in a new tab/window) – completed while at high school
  • Australian Apprenticeships(Opens in a new tab/window) – which include both apprenticeships and traineeships. 
• Placements
  These can include clinical placements, fieldwork, practicums, internships, cadetships etc., which immerse students into a workplace for a period of time.
• Volunteering
  A structured role that builds confidence, routine and transferable skills.

Key strategies for success

Work-based learning is a powerful, evidence-based strategy that can help people transition successfully into employment or further training.⁹ Some strategies to support the process include:

• identifying the conditions for success for each individual and ensuring that work-based learning is aligned with the individual’s learning goals
• making sure there is a good match between the jobseeker and the work placement, including making sure that the workplace culture is open and welcoming ¹⁰
• building and maintaining relationships with employers to create meaningful, inclusive work-based learning opportunities that align with real job roles and business needs
• providing clear, structured tasks, reflection and support, including mentoring and coaching, to help the person build confidence, independence, self awareness and job-specific skills effectively.