Work experience for students

All 14–16-year-old students (Key Stage 4) in our secondary schools, Abbey Manor College and most special schools do work experience. Most school sixth forms make sure that work experience is a crucial element of a post–16 programme of study.

What happens at work experience

Students spend one or two weeks at an employer’s workplace learning about the challenges of working and getting familiar with the skills and attitudes needed by modern businesses.

What we do to help

Every year, we arrange approximately 2,500 placements.

We help schools with:

• block-style work experience for five or 10 days for students aged 14–18
• extended placements for students who will be on assignment throughout the year
• bespoke placements tailored for individual needs.

Health and safety

To ensure a safe environment for students we make sure that all employers undertake health and safety checks before the placement starts.

How students find placements

• Sometimes we find placements for students through our business or school contacts.
• Sometimes students find their own placements through families and friends or by applying directly to businesses.

Each school has a work experience coordinator. Students can contact them in school with any queries or problems, as well as contacting us.

Benefits of work experience

Benefits to young people

• It enhances their knowledge and understanding of the world of work.
• It increases self-confidence and understanding of teamwork.
• It helps them to make better informed decisions about their future.
• Placements give practical experience and help to increase motivation, self-confidence and interpersonal skills.

Benefits for employers

Work experience is an opportunity to contribute to local communities and to build links which will enhance the profile and reputation of your organisation and sector.