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For more information on
practicum opportunities with APM across Australia, contact
Yasmin Dungey on 02 8296 5700 or
yasmin.dungey@apm.net.au
The Purpose of the Student Practicum
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To
gain practical experience, that allows you to apply theories and
philosophies developed in your studies |
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Develop specific skills and obtain knowledge related to the
delivery of services in the field of Rehabilitation Counselling
/Occupational Therapy / Psychology, Exercise Physiology |
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Have
an opportunity to assist APM develop, plan, implement, and
evaluate programs to meet their goals |
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Organise and implement one program/project from beginning to end |
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Begin the transition from student to health professional |
During the practicum, the work place becomes your classroom as
you receive "on the job" training at APM. You will work (with
supervision) in the capacity of an APM professional during your
agreed tenure, and APM will give you an opportunity to gain
experience and confidence. You will be supervised both by APM and by
your faculty advisor/ practicum coordinator.
Tips to Make it All a Little Easier
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Arrange dates and schedule activities with your APM supervisor
(develop a time table together so that you both have a clear
understanding of what activities are planned and any gaps in
knowledge/experience that could be slotted in during your
practicum) |
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Write weekly short e-mails/reports to your APM practicum
supervisor (especially if you are working in a different area
for a few days) regarding achievement of goals and general
progress |
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APM
allows practicum students some level of independence, but expect
you to also abide by an open-door policy, which allows for
spontaneous supervision by various members of staff in addition
to your supervisor |
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You
are always learning, so take the opportunity to learn from all
APM staff. APM have a multi disciplinary team, incorporating
Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, Exercise Physiologists
and other health professionals. Enrich your time at APM by
contributing to that in a positive way by being approachable,
amenable to feedback, and eager to learn from all disciplines |
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Be
conscious of the fact that as a student, you will find that
experiences in practicum are professionally cumulative and will
flow into your career, getting a good start is extremely
important |
Practical Guidelines
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Attendance – be there, and on time. Work hours are 8.30am – 5pm
with 1 hour for lunch |
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Policies and procedures – Get to know the processes at APM. Read
through as much as possible on Springboard |
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Supervision is invaluable – so use it well |
What Should I Expect From My APM Supervisor?
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High
level of mentoring and support whilst on practicum |
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As
required they will be certified, registered, or licensed by the
recognized regulatory body |
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Be
available at least once a week to meet with and review goals,
objectives, and general progress |
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Provide you with as much supervision and/or freedom as your
competence demands |
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Design the practicum experience so that you will experience the
many different facets of the overall organization |
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Provide a supportive and learning atmosphere |
What Are Your Responsibilities?
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Comply with all policy, procedures and regulations of APM (these
will be given to you on your first day) |
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Work
with your APM supervisor to solve problems arising during the
practicum |
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Maintain regular contact with your APM supervisor and Practicum
Coordinator during the practicum |
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Conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times |
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Notify your APM supervisor well in advance of any absence from
work |
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Learn, Learn , Learn… |
Have a great experience and HAVE FUN! Learn as much
as you can. Let your supervisor and APM help you to become the best
health professional you can be.
GOOD LUCK |
