Specific requirements in the Digital and IT skill area

This article describes specific requirements that may apply to industry placements in the Digital and IT skill area. When you get to the detailed preparations for industry placements, you should consider which requirements apply to you with the school, college or other type of provider you are working. You should talk to them about any specific compliance obligations on your business.

Safeguarding in a live digital environment

There may be situations where your placement students are interacting with the public using live chat or social media. You must supervise them closely and make sure they are aware of any risks. Having an e-safety policy will support a proactive approach to protecting young people from online risk.

Accessibility 

You may need to make certain your technology is useable by people with, for example, impaired vision, motor difficulties, cognitive impairments or learning disabilities, deafness or impaired hearing.

You should discuss and arrange reasonable adjustments with the school or college, and student before the industry placement commences.

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)

If you commonly use NDAs in your business, students may need special briefing to understand how NDAs work and their responsibilities. You may ask students to sign appropriate agreements.

While these are not legally binding, they could reassure you and affirm to the student how important non-disclosure is to your organisation.

Confidentiality

If your organisation handles confidential intellectual property, you may need to give students training and put in place appropriate controls. Alternatively, you may decide to find non-confidential tasks and projects for them.  

Data security

If your business handles data, you will need to brief students to ensure that they understand the risks and implications of managing sensitive information, password security and access to facilities. They need to understand your data protection procedures as a result of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the consequences of any breach.

Consider whether your industry imposes regulatory requirements that a student would have to fulfil before commencing a placement. This could include mandatory training, verification and compliance testing may be needed. There may also be a requirement for vetting.

Age

Some content and systems will not be suitable for students under the age of 18. For example, you may not want placement students to work in online gambling environments.  

The legal compliance article gives you more general information about your main responsibilities and provides links to detailed guidance and resources.

The content in this resource is for information only and does not constitute advice. Suggestions or considerations are offered for you to take into account. It’s your responsibility, supported by your school or college, to comply with any legal duties that you might have.