Starting your Field Education journey? We are here to support you!
How Field Placements Are Assigned
The Field Education Coordinator (FEC) is responsible for assigning third- and fourth-year practicum placements. When selecting agency partners, the FEC carefully considers each agency's capacity and willingness to host students, as well as its ability to provide meaningful, high-quality learning opportunities. Agencies must also be willing to enter into a Student Work Placement Agreement with Trent University.
Because agency capacity and availability change from year to year, Trent's placement partnerships evolve annually based on agency resources, Field Instructor feedback, and student feedback.
Important Information for Students
To respect community agency requests and ensure the program operates fairly and effectively, students are not permitted to contact field agencies or Field Instructors directly to arrange their own placements. All practicum placements must be coordinated through the Field Education Coordinator.
If you are aware of an agency that may be interested in hosting Social Work students, you are encouraged to share this information with the Field Education Coordinator, who is happy to follow up regarding the potential for future or long-term placement partnerships.
In some cases, agencies may request that students apply directly for a placement. When this applies, students will be informed by the Field Education team. A list of current and previous placement agencies is shared each year with students in the Professional Years.
Placement Planning Timeline
Understanding the placement timeline can help you plan ahead:
- Third-Year Placements: The placement-matching process typically begins in late September, with matches facilitated in October and November, for a January start.
- Fourth-Year Placements: Planning begins in March, with placement matching continuing throughout the summer in preparation for a September start.
Have a question? Connect with our Field Education Coordinators!
Avery Comeau (Durham)
- 705-768-1011 ext. 5163 | acomeau@trentu.ca
- Book an appointment with Avery
Travis Peck (Peterborough)
- 705-768-1011 ext. 7425 | travispeck@trentu.ca
- Book an appointment with Travis