At Salpaus, students find their own work placements. It is up to the teachers to ensure that the place meets the criteria.
Around half of VET providers are struggling to find suitable work placements. The data is based on an evaluation report by the National Centre for Educational Evaluation (Karvi).
The evaluation has looked at learning in working life and other forms of cooperation between VET providers and working life.
The results vary depending on the sector and the degree. The situation is most difficult for graduates in media and visual arts, arts and performing arts. According to Karvi, work-based learning has become more common in vocational studies since 2018.
In addition to the small number, work-based learning places do not always offer students tasks in accordance with the criteria of the degree. Employers also do not always have sufficient resources to guide students.
Internships have been found for Salpaus students so far
The Salpaus Training Center operating in Päijät-Hämee has so far not encountered the problems shown in Karvi’s report.
Among other things, Tirkkonen, who is responsible for degrees in trade and administration and tourism and catering, thanks the companies of Päijät-Häme for their excellent cooperation.
– Our apprenticeship training has clearly increased. This is partly due to the fact that students who succeed in their tasks during the on-the-job training period want to keep hold of them, and often a continuation is offered through an apprenticeship contract.
– Internship and on-the-job learning positions are very well found. There is a shortage of drivers in particular, so it helps to find places. I believe that motivated students will eventually become motivated employees.