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Student Roles & Responsibilities – Field Placement

Preparation & Review

  • Read and review the AMHW Field Manual before the first day of placement, and bring it to every placement day.

  • Understand all Field Placement expectations, as this is a crucial first step toward success.

Forms & Documentation

  • Submit all required forms (e.g., Learning Contract, Vulnerable Sector Check, Time Logs, Evaluations) to your Field Placement Coordinator on time. Missing signatures may result in a grade of “0.”

  • Ensure your Time Logs are accurate and up-to-date, including holidays and non-placement days.

Collaboration & Learning

  • Work closely with your Agency Field Supervisor (AFS) to develop a Learning Contract and S.M.A.R.T learning activities.

  • Seek clarification whenever necessary—whether on demonstrating a competency or completing a task.

  • Mid-Term and Final Evaluations: Students are responsible for facilitating these meetings, which includes:

    • Creating and sharing a meeting agenda in advance

    • Coming prepared to discuss your Learning Contract, accomplishments, and work completed

    • Highlighting key learning experiences and successes

    • Identifying areas for growth and skills you wish to develop further

    • Discussing initiatives you want to continue taking

Attendance & Accountability

  • Notify your AFS immediately if you are absent or late, ideally before 9 a.m. on the day of placement.

  • Track all Field Placement hours carefully. Complete all required hours by the deadlines.

  • Arrange timely Time Log signatures with your AFS.

Communication & Support

  • Remain in regular contact with your College Field Supervisor (CFS) for guidance, support, and consultation.

  • Check your myCentennial email 2–3 times daily for placement updates and communications.

  • Communicate any issues promptly to your CFS in both written and oral formats. If unresolved, escalate in writing to the Field Placement Coordinator.

Professionalism & Ethics in Practice

  • Maintain professionalism in accordance with College and Agency ethics, policies, and codes of conduct.

  • Demonstrate ethical behavior in all interactions with staff and community members, including:

    • Respecting confidentiality at all times

    • Showing cultural humility, inclusivity, and sensitivity to diverse populations

    • Following agency policies, procedures, and legal obligations

    • Acting with integrity, honesty, and accountability

    • Applying professional boundaries in all interactions

    • Reflecting on ethical dilemmas and discussing them with your AFS or CFS to ensure responsible practice

  • Document professionally: All work, including meeting agendas and reflections, should be typed and follow APA format.


💡 Tip for Success & Confidence – Field Placement

  • Be on top of deadlines: Submit all forms, Time Logs, and evaluations on time. Staying organized prevents delays and ensures you can complete your placement smoothly.

  • Plan ahead: Start your Vulnerable Sector Check / Police Background Check early—processing can take weeks.

  • Communicate proactively: Ask questions and share updates with your AFS and CFS. It’s professional and shows initiative.

  • Prepare for meetings & visits: Send agendas in advance, review your learning goals, and reflect on your progress.

  • Track your hours accurately: Include every placement day, holidays, and non-placement days. Accurate documentation shows accountability.

  • Be professional, but be yourself: Authenticity builds trust with staff and community members. You’re not expected to know everything—learning is the goal.

  • Leverage your strengths: Empathy, curiosity, creativity, and resilience are valuable. Notice what you do well and build on it.

  • Reflect & celebrate: Take time to reflect on challenges and successes. Small wins, like co-facilitating a group or mastering documentation, matter!

  • Stay positive and curious: Mistakes are part of learning. Ask questions, observe carefully, and take initiative to grow as a professional in training.

  • Seek support when needed: If something is unclear or difficult, reach out immediately. Early intervention keeps your placement on track.

License

Centennial College Addiction and Mental Health Worker Program (AMHW) Field Placement Manual, 2025–2026 Copyright © 2025 by Michelle Galeotalanza MSW, RSW and Odessa Austin BA, SSW. All Rights Reserved.