Lincoln College is set to revolutionize its T-level curriculum by introducing remote work placements from September. This move comes after careful collaboration with employers and aims to incorporate elements of working life that have become increasingly prevalent. With 50% of placements on certain courses, such as digital, being conducted remotely, the college acknowledges the growing trend of flexible work arrangements in today's professional landscape.
The decision to include remote work in the curriculum aligns with broader industry practices. Currently, 26% of the workforce engages in hybrid working, a combination of home and workplace environments, while 13% work from home full-time. Jonathan Reynolds, the government's business secretary, supports this flexible approach, emphasizing its benefits for productivity and resilience.
"replicate what's going on in the industry itself" – Mr Horsfield
Lincoln College's initiative aims to prepare students for real-world work environments. By offering remote placements, the college hopes to replicate industry practices and provide students with a realistic experience of working life. Mr. Horsfield, a representative of the college, highlights the importance of adapting to industry trends.
"From a design point of view it would be better, because you're in your home, it's a much more comfortable environment than being in an office, but with quantity surveying it would probably be better to be on site so you can see what you're working with" – Mr Horsfield
Despite the growing acceptance of remote work, opinions remain divided. Ethan, a 16-year-old student, expresses comfort with working from home, while Alfie, 18, believes the suitability of remote work depends on various factors.
"I think it comes down to the job, the profession and the person and what's easier and cheaper" – Alfie
Maddox, another 18-year-old student, shares a similar sentiment, acknowledging that while some roles may benefit from remote settings, others may require on-site presence. This diversity in perspectives underscores the importance of considering individual preferences and job requirements when implementing remote work arrangements.
The shift towards remote work gained momentum after the Covid pandemic in 2020. However, not everyone is convinced of its efficacy. Lord Rose contends that remote work has led to a generation of individuals "not doing proper work." This skepticism contrasts with the overwhelming support for flexible working conditions.
The debate extends beyond educational institutions to government bodies. Last year, hundreds of Office for National Statistics (ONS) workers voted to strike over working conditions. ONS management now mandates staff to spend at least 40% of their time in a designated workplace.
