Module 5

Photo: Raman Preet, courtesy of the Tourism Practicum program at CAPU

Welcome to Module 5: Onboarding and Workplace Integration

This module explores how WIL host organizations can effectively onboard and integrate work-integrated learning (WIL) students into their teams through structured, inclusive, and supportive practices.

A strong orientation and onboarding process does more than introduce a student to their tasks. It builds a foundation for confidence, clarity, and a sense of belonging while ensuring that students understand what is expected of them.

Inclusive onboarding ensures students from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed, respected, and supported as they begin their placement. This includes setting clear expectations, making introductions intentional, providing accessible information, and offering mentorship from the start.

In this module, you will learn how to:

  • Examine the essential components of a structured onboarding process.
  • Create a welcoming and inclusive team environment.
  • Explore strategies to mentor and support WIL students throughout their placement.

This module is especially relevant for supervisors and team members working directly with WIL students. It provides tools and resources to help ensure students are not only welcomed into the WIL placement but meaningfully supported as they grow in their roles.

This module begins by exploring the core elements of onboarding and offers actionable strategies for building consistency, equity, and care into every student’s first days on the job.