Centennial College and AMHW Field Placement Policies and Expectations

Centennial College is guided by policies and procedures that protect the rights and responsibilities of all students, staff, and faculty. These policies reflect the College’s mission, vision, and values, and support a safe, respectful, and supportive learning, teaching, and working environment.

It is important for students to become familiar with all College policies and procedures, as they govern expectations, rights, and responsibilities while enrolled. Learn more about Centennial College Policies.

1. Field Placement Eligibility

Prerequisites and Co-requisites: Students must meet all course prerequisites and co-requisites, submit required documentation, and maintain good academic standing to participate in Field Placement.

Off-Model Route and Readmitting Students: Refer to the Off-Model Route and Readmission Policy for details on returning to the program or pursuing an off-model pathway.

Independent Search: Refer to the Independent Search Policy for guidance on securing a placement independently if necessary.

Unpaid Placement: Field Placement is an academic course. Students are not paid; the focus is on learning, skill development, and professional growth within the agency setting.

2. Professionalism, Attendance, and Conduct

Professionalism: Students are expected to conduct themselves professionally at all times, including:

• Appropriate attire and behavior

• Punctuality and consistent attendance

• Respectful interactions with agency staff, clients, and peers

• Prompt responses to emails and communications from the College and agency

Attendance:

• Attend placement for agreed-upon hours

• Track hours accurately

• Report absences immediately to the Agency Field Supervisor (AFS)

Ethical Conduct, Confidentiality & Privacy:

• Uphold the Centennial College Student Code of Conduct and the OCSWSSW Code of Ethics during Field Placement

• Maintain confidentiality of client information at all times

• Demonstrate professional behavior aligned with social work and mental health standards

• Breaches may result in removal from placement, reduced or failing grades, and other disciplinary actions

3. Submission of Required Documents

Medical Forms & Criminal Reference Checks:

• Provide up-to-date medical forms (when required) and Vulnerable Sector Checks as requested by each agency

• Agencies are responsible for ensuring submitted documents meet internal policy requirements

Student Declaration & Agency Sign-Off:

• Students must sign the Student Declaration of Understanding Form (Appendix J)

• Agency Field Supervisors must sign the Letter to Placement Employers (Appendix K)

• Signed forms must be submitted to the Field Placement Coordinator by the first Friday of the semester

4. Students with Disabilities and Accommodations

Centennial College complies with Ontario Human Rights Legislation and College accommodation policies. Students with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations that support learning while maintaining program standards.

Key Points:

• Students who are registered with CALCS (Centre for Accessible Learning and Counselling Services) and require accommodations for Field Placement must indicate this on the Areas of Interest form and speak with their Field Placement Coordinator prior to the matching process.

• Students are not required to disclose the nature of their disability, but they must ensure the Field Placement Coordinator receives the accommodation form outlining what accommodations are needed so that placements can be matched appropriately.

• Accommodations should enable students to demonstrate Program Vocational Learning Outcomes and meet provincial standards.

• Students should meet with a CALCS counsellor before placement to review accommodations and develop strategies for success.

5. Human Rights & Dispute Resolution

Centennial College is committed to a learning environment free from intimidation, harassment, and discrimination.

If issues arise:

• Immediately report discrimination or harassment to your AFS and/or College Field Supervisor (CFS)

• Follow the Dispute Resolution Policy and Procedures if you believe your rights have been infringed or College policies breached

Student Code of Conduct:

• Applies to both classroom and placement settings

• Students must adhere to all ethical and professional standards during academic and field placement activities

• Breaches may result in disciplinary action in accordance with College procedures