Whilst the Work Based Experiential Learning programme is important in the training of Environmental Health Practitioners, it is flexible. It is advisable (but not mandatory) to get this completed, with your evidence submitted, before returning to the University for your final year, as this will lessen the pressure on you.
Whatever happens you must not let this training become too much of a burden on you and you should ask for help if you become at all concerned. All the people below have experience of assisting students with their training. Most have helped students who have felt under pressure. Your practical training is an opportunity you will never have again, so enjoy it and make the most of it.
Training Officers
Where a student is based with a local authority the authority will have a student training officer whose role is to ensure that students are provided with the help and assistance they may need in satisfying the requirements of their Work-Based Training Programme. This will include help with identifying suitable training opportunities and advising as to suitability and sufficiency of evidence in their ELP.
Your University
The lecturers at your university should be available to help students whist they are undergoing their practical training. You will be allocated a member of staff as a mentor who will contact you at regular intervals to ensure that you are enjoying and making the most of your time in industry. Should any problems arise please contact your mentor.
Remember that some of the experience that you will have had at your university (e.g. inspections) may be used as evidence for the learning programme.
Experiential Learning Mentors
The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health runs a Mentor Scheme whereby a number of CIEH assessors act in a voluntary capacity to assist you in putting together evidence etc. for your experiential learning worksheet (or existing logbook). For further details and to find the nearest mentor(s) to you please contact Peter Wright at p.n.wright@btinternet.com or on 01706 223671. This service is free.
The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health
Advice as to the requirements of the Work Based Experiential Learning programme can be obtained from the CIEH. Contact Tony Lewis, Principal Education officer on 0207 827 5907, or at t.lewis@cieh.org.
Any Environmental Health Practitioner
Every Environmental Health Practitioner has been through the process of being a student and understands the pressures than can arise. Although not every Environmental Health Practitioner will be familiar with all of the details of the Work Based Experiential Learning programme most will be willing to provide practical advice to students based on their own knowledge and experience.