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Induction and Probation

Guidance to help you navigate the application and interview process for Student Colleague roles

Introduction

A well-structured induction and probation process is essential for setting Student Colleagues up for success and ensuring a positive and productive working relationship from the outset.

For Student Colleagues, induction provides a welcoming introduction to the organisation; helping them understand our values, expectations, and ways of working. It ensures that Student Colleagues have the knowledge, tools, and support they need to feel confident in their role and become effective as quickly as possible.

For Line Managers, the probation period offers an important opportunity to guide and support new team members. Regular, formal and informal, check-ins, clear objectives, and constructive feedback help to recognise areas of strength, address any early challenges, and reinforce expectations.

Together, Induction and Probation create a strong foundation for Student Colleagues to make an impact and contribute to the overall success of the department they are working for, and Marjon more widely.

1. Induction and Probationary Checklist

One size doesn't fit all! At Marjon, Student Colleague roles are varied. Some Student Colleagues work regular shifts whilst other Student Colleagues work on a more ad-hoc basis. Therefore, the requirements of an induction and probation process need to be flexible.

The Student Colleagues Induction and Probationary Checklist should therefore be used as a template by Line Managers and Student Colleagues to support ‘local’ and team specific inductions. Recognised and established ways of inducting Student Colleagues should be incorporated into the checklist. The checklist is jointly owned by the Student Colleague, and the Student Colleague’s Line Manager. Both Student Colleagues and Line Managers are encouraged to ‘sign’ off actions when they are completed. Line Managers should consider where the checklist is digitally stored to allow easy access and editing by both parties.

This checklist should be used in conjunction with Plymouth Marjon University’s Probation Policy and Procedure. You can access both by clicking on the buttons below.

Download the Induction and Probationary Checklist Check the University's Probation Policy and Procedure

2. Student Colleague Performance and Development Review (PDR)

Student Colleague roles have been designed to be developmental, supporting Marjon students to develop the Marjon Attributes. To maximise time, and development, it is suggested that Student Colleague Performance and Development Reviews (PDR) are incorporated with probationary meetings at the end of month one, three and five.

The aim of this process is to support Student Colleagues to reflect on the skills, abilities and attributes needed to be successful in their role and provide an opportunity to set goals to develop in these areas. SC and LMs are encouraged to visit the ‘Development resources’ of the Student Colleagues to access resources to support development.

Go to Performance and Development Review (PDR)