benchmark 6: experiences of workplaces

Every student should have first-hand experiences of the workplace through work visits, work shadowing and/ or work experience to help their exploration of career opportunities, and expand their networks.

• By the age of 16, every student should have had at least one experience of a workplace, additional to any part-time jobs they may have.

• By the age of 18, every student should have had one further such experience, additional to any part-time jobs they may have.

Examples of Workplace experiences:

 - work experience placements (1-2 week block or weekly commitment)

 - work experience in school

 - volunteering; work experience (less than 1 week)

 - workplace visits

 - job shadowing

 - holiday placements

Useful resources:

Enterprise competitions and events can be great ways to experience a 'working environment'

Tycoon enterprise competition

Volunteer It Yourself

Amazon UK offer free warehouse tours including their warehouse in Coventry

NDTI Resources for Employers
CDC Resources for employers, education and families
Mencap resources for employers.
National Grid Employability

Work experience, job shadowing and workplace visits.  What works?