Ins and outs of student assistants...

[*Katrina*]

...can anyone give me some advice about using students as assistants?
I am thinking about having another pair of hands/eyes on one or two days a week from September but can't really afford to pay somebody (certainly not for 2 days). I have contacted the local college and they seem very interested to set up a student placement.
What are the rules/restrictions on using student assistants as opposed to paid assistants? I am not looking to increase my numbers, just have an extra pair of eyes on our busiest days.

[sarah707]

They can be handy to have around or a complete waste of time

Make sure the college send you one with some get up and go or you'll be driving yourself potty

[*Katrina*]

I did wonder if I might end up feeling like I have taken another child on
I'm hoping to find someone like I was at that age, I did work experience in a Primary School helping to support a child with SEN and I really enjoyed it, worked hard and got a lot from it...although I'm sure there are some that see it as a day off college!

[Chatterbox Childcare]

They cannot be left alone with the children so if you are using the car it is another space taken - negative

they can help tidy up - positive

they can help you plan - positive

You can write your obs whilst they play with the little ones - positive