ES&C brochure S3 (1)

Work-based learning Building your experience, your way.

Work-based learning is a key part of your development at Hartpury. It’s about gaining real-world experience alongside your studies, helping you connect what you learn at university to the environments you may go on to work in. You don’t need to have everything figured out to get started. Work-based learning gives you the opportunity to explore different roles, test your interests, and build confidence in your abilities as you go . What does work-based learning involve in the UK? In the UK, work-based learning is widely recognised as an important part of higher education. It often forms part of your course through placements, practical modules or industry-focused projects. It can also include additional experiences you choose to take on alongside your studies. Work-based learning helps you develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours employers are looking for — not just through theory, but through practical application. It allows you to understand industry expectations, workplace culture, and how your skills can be used in real situations. Why is it important? Work-based learning supports your career development in a way that feels manageable and meaningful. It gives you the chance to: – Build confidence by applying your skills in real situations – Develop key employability skills such as teamwork, communication and problem solving – Explore different career paths before making decisions about your future – Strengthen your CV with relevant, hands-on experience – Make connections with employers and industry professionals Many students find that these experiences help them feel more prepared and confident when thinking about life after university. What counts as work-based learning? Work-based learning looks different for everyone. It’s not limited to one type of experience — what matters is that you are developing skills, gaining insight, and reflecting on what you’ve learned. This can include:

LMI (Labour Market Information) and Work Based Learning Labour Market Information (LMI) and work-based learning work together to support informed and purposeful career development. LMI helps you identify in-demand skills, sectors, and roles, enabling you to choose placements and experiences that align with current and future job opportunities. Work-based learning then allows you to apply this insight in real-world settings, developing relevant skills and building evidence to strengthen your employability. What is LMI (Labour Market Information)? Labour Market Information (LMI) is data that tells you what’s happening in the world of work right now and in the future. In simple terms, it helps answer questions like: – What jobs are out there? – Which careers are growing or shrinking? How does knowing LMI help you make informed career decisions? Understanding LMI helps you to: – Choose pathways that align with real job opportunities, not just job titles – Identify skills gaps early and plan how to fill them – Decide whether further study, placements, or experience are needed – Be realistic about progression, competition, pay and location – Feel more confident explaining their choices to employers In short, LMI helps students move from “I like this subject” to “I know where this could realistically lead and how to get there.” You can think of LMI as a career “reality check”, based on evidence rather than guesswork. How LMI links to work based learning Work based learning is where LMI really comes to life. LMI helps you confidently decide: – Which placements or internships will be most useful – What skills you should focus on developing while on placement – How to choose experiences that match industry trends, not just convenience. This demonstrates you’re committed to professional development and growth. For example, if LMI shows employers value effective customer communication you should actively develop this skill and look for opportunities to gain experience and build expertise. Or, if the sector you wish to progress in to is competitive, you know you will need varied or specialist experience to stand out. Work based learning then becomes strategic, not just a course requirement. – What skills and qualifications do employers want? – Where are jobs located and how much do they pay?

– Course placements, internships and micro internships (Internal) – Live industry briefs, projects and research projects (Internal) – Practical course elements or live projects with employers (internal) – Part-time jobs or seasonal work (External – Volunteering or community projects (External) – Industry placements or work shadowing (External) – Freelance work, self-employment or running a small business (External) Every experience contributes to your development.

Even roles that may not seem directly related to your future career can help you build transferable skills and confidence.

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