​​Explore and understand the perceptions of students and placement agencies regarding current assessment methods used in youth work placements.​

​​This study explores the perceptions of students and placement agencies regarding the relevance and fairness of current assessment methods used in community youth work placements. As work-based and placement learning (WBPL) becomes increasingly important in developing future-ready skills, aligning academic assessment with workplace expectations is crucial. Using an action research methodology, this project engaged students and placement supervisors in a participatory inquiry to understand how assessment methods impact learning and personal and professional development. Through interviews with placement supervisors and focus groups with final-year students, the study offers practical insights into how current assessment strategies support—or hinder—student growth and agency expectations. Early findings reveal a need for more flexible, authentic, and developmentally appropriate assessment models. This presentation will highlight opportunities for refining assessment frameworks to better support students’ skill development and strengthen partnerships with employers. The research aims to produce actionable ideas for enhancing placement assessment practices and building collaborative relationships that promote meaningful, skills-focused learning in WBPL settings.​