1. Introduction
Workexperience programmes provide valuable opportunities for students, recent graduates, or career changers to gain practical insight into a professional environment. To protect the interests of the host organisation, its staff, and the participants themselves, clear expectations around confidentiality and conduct must be established at the outset.
This document outlines the key principles that should be incorporated into any workexperience agreement. It is intended as a general guide; organisations may adapt the language to suit specific legal requirements, industry standards, or organisational policies.
2. Defining Confidential Information
Confidential Information includes any nonpublic data, materials, or knowledge shared with the participant during the placement, such as:
- Client lists, contracts, and pricing structures.
- Proprietary processes, software code, designs, or research data.
- Internal policies, strategic plans, and financial statements.
- Any personal data about employees, customers, or third parties protected by privacy legislation.
Information that is already publicly available or that the participant rightfully possessed before the placement is not considered confidential.
3. Participant Confidentiality Obligations
3.1. General Duty
Participants must keep all confidential information strictly private and use it only for purposes directly related to the workexperience tasks assigned by the host. The duty continues after the placement ends.
3.2. Handling and Storage
- Store documents in designated secure locations (e.g., locked cabinets, passwordprotected computers).
- Do not copy, photograph, or transmit confidential material without explicit written permission.
- Return or securely destroy all confidential material on completion of the placement.
3.3. Disclosure Exceptions
Disclosure is permissible only when:
- Required by law, regulation, or a valid court order. In such cases, the participant must promptly notify the host to allow a protective response.
- The information has become public through no fault of the participant.
4. Code of Conduct Overview
The Code of Conduct sets the behavioural standards expected of participants. It promotes a safe, respectful, and productive workplace for everyone.
4.1. Professional Behaviour
- Arrive on time and adhere to the agreed schedule.
- Dress in accordance with the organisations dress code.
- Communicate courteously with staff, clients, and other participants.
- Seek clarification when tasks or expectations are unclear.
4.2. Ethical Standards
- Act with honesty and integrity; avoid any form of plagiarism or falsification of work.
- Respect intellectual property rights of the host and its partners.
- Do not accept gifts, favours, or incentives that could be perceived as influencing professional judgement.
4.3. Health, Safety & Security
- Follow all healthandsafety procedures, including the use of protective equipment where required.
- Report accidents, nearmisses, or unsafe conditions immediately to a supervisor.
- Maintain security of physical and digital assets; do not share passwords or access cards.
4.4. Harassment & Discrimination
The host maintains a zerotolerance policy for harassment, bullying, and discrimination. Participants must treat all individuals fairly, irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
4.5. Use of Technology
- Use the organisations IT resources responsibly and only for workrelated purposes.
- Do not install unauthorized software, visit prohibited websites, or engage in any activity that could compromise network security.
- Adhere to the organisations socialmedia policy when posting about the placement.
5. Enforcement and Consequences
Violations of the confidentiality clause or the Code of Conduct may result in:
- Immediate termination of the placement.
- Reimbursement of any losses or damages caused.
- Referral to the participants educational institution.
- Legal action where appropriate, especially for breaches involving trade secrets or personal data.
The host reserves the right to investigate any alleged breach promptly and fairly.
6. Signing the Agreement
By signing below, the participant acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agree to comply with the Confidentiality Obligations and the Code of Conduct outlined above.
Participant Name: ________________________________
Signature: _______________________________________
Date: ____________________________________________
Host Organisation Representative: __________________
Signature: _______________________________________
Date: ____________________________________________
7. Additional Resources
For further information, participants may consult the following:
- Organisations Full Employee Handbook available on the intranet.
- Data Protection Policy outlines obligations under GDPR, HIPAA, or other relevant legislation.
- Whistleblowing Procedure confidential channels for reporting unethical behaviour.
- Local labor laws governing internships and workexperience placements.
