Student work readiness: evaluating a new model

Work readiness is a graduate attribute expected of students who have successfully completed their tertiary studies. The reality is that emerging graduates are often not effectively equipped for the workforce. Our research explores how the new Life Buoy Model of work readiness can be utilised by universities to support the development of work ready characteristics in their students. We explore the ways in which one Australian university i.) fosters the development of work ready characteristics in built environment students; and, ii.) applies university-based initiatives to underpin the development of work ready characteristics. Our analysis revealed that all university initiatives available to students could be classified into the eight components of the Life Buoy work readiness model, suggesting that it may be a useful framework to guide universities in designing their work ready initiatives and services. It is considered that this research may have benefits for universities, students and employers globally.