ITWales: Student Placement Scheme

ITWales is an innovative programme linking the skills and technical requirements of industry to the expertise and resources of the Computer science Department at Swansea. Our full-time Industrial Liaison Officer organises a wide range of activities, including an IT Club for South Wales based companies. An important part of ITWales is the Student Placement Scheme.

The Student Placement Scheme gives students the opportunity to undertake interesting, well paid vacation work in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) organisations in Wales - usually small and medium-sized companies, though some large companies and public services are involved (for example, BT, South Wales police, DERA and EDS).

Students participating in the scheme often find that they are in a position of considerable responsibility within the company; occasionally they have more ICT experience than anyone else.

The benefits of the scheme to the student are primarily well-paid, interesting and relevant work experience. It builds links with a company which can lead to an industry-related final year project and, in some cases, to an appointment after graduation.

ITWales is a collaborative venture between the Department of Computer Science, Industry, the Welsh Assembly Government and the European Social Fund. The Student Placement Scheme is so successful, it is now offered elsewhere in Wales. However, the Computer Science Department remains the administrative centre; because of our long experience, we and our students have a leading role in the scheme and its development.

Please see the ITWales web site, where you will find out more about placements, and also about other initiatives such as Continuing Professional Development, our IT Club and distance learning.