What constitutes Practice-based Learning?

Practice based learning takes place during placements which involve a range of learning opportunities for student development. Students apply and consolidate their learning, bringing together academic theory, workplace practice to develop skills and competences needed to register. Practice learning is supervised and structured to enable progress towards learning outcomes and usually involves assessment of the learner. 

Traditional practice-based learning focuses on professional practice. Activities within professional practice are not limited to direct patient contact and AHP students can undertake a wide range of activities within their placement including

• shadowing other professions
• developing case studies
• delivering training and awareness sessions
• developing clinical formulation skills
• writing reports

In addition, an AHP student needs to develop a wide range of skills during their training to equip them for the workplace

• carrying out research, including literature reviews
• quality improvement projects
• developing a proposal for a new service
• presenting at forums and staff development sessions
• undertaking project work for specific events
• hosting journal clubs
• developing leadership skills

Mental health and learning disability placements also offer enhanced opportunities to develop specific skills such as

• Understanding Mental Capacity Assessments
• Enhancing communication skill
• Developing deeper therapeutic relationships
• Working with families and carers
• Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team with other professionals

For more information on the AHP Pre-registration Student Practice-Based Learning Programme access AHP Pre-Registration Student Practice-Based Learning Programme.