In this practical and participatory session, the salient topic of resilience will be considered within the context of placements and work-based learning. What is “resilience”? How does a resilient applicant or resilient placement student present themselves? When might resilience be a negative concept? Can we influence employers to develop resilient students and jobseekers?

What can placement practitioners do to support students with developing resilience whilst they navigate the choppy waters of recruitment and selection? What techniques can be put to use to strengthen resilience whilst students embark upon the start of their professional working lives on placement? How can we reflect upon our own capacity for resilience and how can we utilise this to inform our work in HE?

Drawing upon the field of positive psychology, including theories of wellbeing and growth mindset theories, ideas and tips will be shared and discussed to enable delegates to create a toolkit of suggestions and approaches to take back to their day-to-day roles.