Part 1: How to plan ahead and get the support you need to succeed
Work experience is a crucial opportunity for students to develop skills beyond the classroom, explore careers, and network. Virtual and in-person experiences offer unique benefits, from broad accessibility to hands-on workplace immersion. For schools, families, and employers, it's also a chance to build relationships, challenge stereotypes, and support future recruitment.
Planning for success
1. Set clear expectations
Make it a whole school approach and show colleagues and parents the benefits from the outset to get buy-in. Communicate roles and responsibilities early via school channels. Many families assume schools arrange placements so address this upfront. I’ve seen great examples of work experience launch evenings with parents and teachers, so get them involved from the start.
2. Ease anxiety
To reduce stress, encourage students to focus on skills rather than fixed career paths. Identify students who may need additional support when looking for placements as early as possible and involve support staff to ensure inclusion. Small group sessions help students navigate employer outreach and rejection. Work in teams to leverage networks and help each other find placements, starting early to avoid last-minute pressure.
3. Engage employers
Work with your alumni, past employers, parents, and community groups for options. LinkedIn is an excellent resource that can be used to keep in touch with past pupils, reach out to local employers, and engage recruiters. Once on board, keep them informed on expectations and the support you require.
4. Maintain momentum
Regular updates to all of the school via emails, social media, and ‘shout-out’ posters keep engagement high. Once a student has found a placement, celebrate that achievement. Check-in with families and employers to minimise any last-minute surprises.
5. Pre-experience opportunities
Many employers are now offering virtual work experience opportunities, and some require the student to complete these before applying for an in-person activity. They can be a great way to get students engaged and have a taste of what they may or may not like to do before starting a real-world experience. In the UCAS Hub, students can explore virtual options and get a certificate when they complete a programme.
Coming up next week
Delivering a smooth experience and measuring outcomes.