This is in relation to short term work experience - not placement years
If you are on a Tier 4 or Student route visa, there are restrictions on the work placements/experience you can participate in as part of the course. UKVI regulations state that students on a Tier 4/Student route visa can only take part in a work placement/experience if it is an integral and assessed part of the course.
The work placements available to you are not integral and assessed therefore, if you do wish to take up the opportunity of a work placement, it should be treated as a job, regardless of whether it’s paid or voluntary. You need to be mindful of the visa restrictions on working hours per week and ensure that any work you undertake does not exceed your working restriction stated on your BRP. Please also be aware, that if you already have a part-time job, you will need to count the hours spent working at both your part-time job and the work placement/experience as the UKVI restriction applies to all work that you do within a week.
If there is the option to complete a work placement during the vacation period, then you would be permitted to work full-time in line with UKVI guidance. Information on the University vacation dates can be found here.
You are also able to work full-time once your course has ended if this could be arranged with the employer.
If you have any questions about working and the hours you are permitted to work, please contact International Student Support, Advice and Compliance on international.students@sheffield.ac.uk