Roadmap to Inclusive and Accessible Apprenticeship Placements

(By Agnes Sarolta Fazekas)

Challenges to inclusive and accessible apprenticeships

In professional higher education apprenticeships are essential for all students. Different stakeholders recognize the value of apprenticeships as a significant part of preparation for careers beyond studies. Nevertheless, many students with disabilities have little or no meaningful work experience and face barriers because of the inaccessible planning and delivery phases of apprenticeships. (Luzzo, Hitchings, & Howland, 1995).

It is essential to assess the current and future environment of apprenticeships and work placements for diverse workforce, including students with disabilities. It is important to design all phases of the apprenticeships, including the transition, work placement and evaluation/assessment phase. Various professional higher education professionals, such as placement officers, career centers, support units for students with disabilities and counselors, must collaborate together with the students with disabilities.

Equal access means that for accessing and participating in professional higher education in its various dimensions, such as work placements, students with disabilities have access to the necessary support services prior and during the work placement.

Below you can find relevant information on the subject and links to additional online resources to support you along the journey of assuring inclusive and accessible apprenticeship placements i your company.