Written by Remi Bampton
I am about to embark on 16 weeks of placement, 8 of those will be in Sydney (5 hours from home) and the other 8 in Taree (1 hour from home). Being prepared for placement is important to ensure placement runs as smoothly as possible! You don’t want to be running around whilst in a new city trying to find supplies or fix your uniform!
Make a list
The first thing I like to do is make a list of things I need to do before I leave, things I need to pack and things I need to buy so that I have ample time to prepare so come along with me as I prepare for placement!
Stock up
First stop KMART
- I need to get new uniform pants; and I need time to get them hemmed! Make sure to leave enough time to get your uniform sorted.
- I got some notebooks.
- Lunchbox + mini coolers.
Second stop OFFICEWORKS
- Pens – I like the clip-on ones to attach to my pants.
- New badge reel for my ID.
- Hand sanitiser.
- Laptop case.
Prepare for assessments
Now that I have bought everything needed for placement. I need to complete my pre-readings in my placement setting, write my learning objectives and reflections before I go so that I can enjoy the experience and not have to worry about these assessments.
Pack ahead
It’s important to have a running list so you remember to bring everything. I like to break it up into sections such as clothes, toiletries, devices, stationery etc. Apart from the obvious things, it’s also important to have a self-care section for things such as exercise clothes/joggers, nice clothes to go out in, books, face masks etc, as it’s important to prioritise yourself even when you’re knackered.
When packing, also remember it’s better to have it and not need it rather than need it and not have it! So, if you think you might need it, just chuck it in!
Make time for you
It’s also important to do things for yourself on placement. That’s why I have decided to treat myself to a trip to the bookstore so I can unwind each day with a good new book.
If you have placement this year Good luck! You’ve got this!
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