A placement year enables students to undertake a year of experience in an organisation between their second and final year. It is a substantial piece of paid experience where you can make a real contribution to your employer and it can really make you stand out from the crowd.

It will also enable you to:

apply the knowledge and skills you gain from your course in a work setting
build your commercial awareness and insights into organisations and industries you might want to work in
develop your professional skills through company training, networking skills and confidence in the workplace
get some great experience for future job applications or even land a graduate job.

Support from St Mary’s every step of the way

Securing a placement can really help you develop your job search skills and the Employability Service placement and Careers Teams can support you to find and apply for available opportunities. You will need to attend some preparatory workshops which will explain all aspects of the placement year and give you the skills to find the placement of your choice. With access to our jobs board, careers events, and employer contacts you will be able to approach companies confidently and find the right opportunity for you.

Please note: in the event that you cannot secure a placement you will be able to transfer onto the three year version of your degree programme.

PGCE Primary and Secondary Webinar: Wednesday 4th February 2026

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