How Work Integrated Learning can benefit your career

It's no longer enough to have just a degree. You need industry experience before you graduate. The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme supported by Le Cordon Bleu can get you working while studying.

Get involved

In a Le Cordon Bleu programme, students undertake a minimum of six months' Work Integrated Learning (WIL). The Industry Engagement Team will work with and support a student in the identification and selection of an WIL placement that will best meet the students work based learning. The Industry Engagement team will provide support and provide individual career management advice to students to help identify a WIL placement opportunity from Le Cordon Bleu’s extensive range of industry partners for real work experience in a leading hospitality business. Alternatively a student may wish to source their own WIL placement which the Industry Engagement Team approves to ensure the student gains the most from their WIL experience.

Engaging in your placement is vital to your success. Even as a student, you will also be expected to work as a member of the team. You are not simply an observer but a contributing member of staff. Take the opportunity to speak up, ask as many questions as possible and raise your hand for any new opportunities within the company to further your learning. Some Le Cordon Bleu students are later employed by their host organisations, so this is an excellent opportunity to make an impression.

Be self-reflective

In any career it's important to reflect on your performance and experiences. Examining both positive and challenging experiences in your placement will help you identify areas for further development, and may provide some clarity regarding your future career pathways. Le Cordon Bleu's Industry Engagement Team will support you through your placement and assist in finding opportunities for you to work on key areas of interest.

Form connections

Working in industry for leading hospitality organisations gives you the chance to start creating a professional network. Building friendships with other hospitality professionals you'll meet during your placement has a range of benefits:

• Building confidence: By kick-starting your networking experience in a safe environment, you can build confidence to ensure you are able to network effectively later in life.
• Learn from others: Everyone has unique perspectives that can't be transcribed into textbooks - forming connections helps you continue your learning beyond your education.
• Access more opportunities: As you develop your network, you may find yourself discovering exclusive career opportunities.

Le Cordon Bleu graduates enjoy a lifelong global alumni membership offering networking, career support and industry connection.

Contact Le Cordon Bleu today to discuss how a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme can benefit your career.

CRICOS 02380M / RTO 4959