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What is Frontrunners?
Frontrunners is the University’s unique student placement scheme. All placements are based on campus. Being a frontrunner is more than just a part time job, it gives you the opportunity to gain real workplace skills and experience, along with training opportunities.

How long do Frontrunners placements last?
Placements range from a minimum of 3 months to a maximum of 12 months, and frontrunners work up to a maximum of 12 hours a week.

Do I get paid?
Yes! All Frontrunners placements are paid £5.73 per hour, and you will get paid on a weekly basis into your bank account.

Who can be a frontrunner?
Frontrunners is open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students. The only requirement is that you are a registered University of Essex student.

What kinds of placements are available?
Placements can be based in academic departments, centres, and administrative and management sections of the University. Current placements range from Marketing and Publicity Assistants to Website and Research Assistants.

What training is involved?
Training and skills development are key to Frontrunners, giving you the chance to improve your employability and get a head start in your career planning.
Throughout your placement you will have the opportunity to complete training specific to your placement, from on the job training to more formal structured sessions. All frontrunners are required to attend an induction session, and complete certain online Health and Safety modules. Frontrunners are also required to attend and complete 2 WORKskills sessions and online modules by the end of their placement.

What will I get out of the placement?
Many things! To start, you will significantly boost your CV and career prospects with new experience and training, whilst earning money and contributing to campus life.

How do I apply?
You can view the current placement opportunities below. It is strongly advised that you read through the guidance notes before applying. Remember, the Careers Centre offer a range of services that could help you with your application.

Can I apply for more than 1 Frontrunners placement?
Yes. You can apply for up to 3 placements at a time, and there is space to let us know if you are doing this on the application form. You will need to fill in separate application forms for each placement, making sure you relate your experience to the job description and personal specification for each one. Although you can apply for 3 you can only work in one placement at a time.

What placements are available?

The next round of Frontrunners placements are currently open. The closing date is 22 November 2009. For more information please go to the Frontrunners website.

Further details about Frontrunners is available on the Learning and Teaching website.