Exploring international social work placements: a host organisation’s experience in Cambodia

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article presents the reflections of social work, education advocacy and directorate staff on social work student placements in Cambodia. Staff were predominantly from Cambodia while the student, at the time of the data gathering was from Aotearoa New Zealand, staff also took into consideration previous placements at the agency. The community-based NGO in Cambodia, where the placement was situated, delivers a range of community development, social work and education services. The data was gathered using an action research approach and explored the skills, knowledge and professional attributes required for working with an indigenous population. Several recommendations for higher education institutions, primarily relating to placement preparation and the important role of local placement host organisations, are outlined.