Work Experience

Work Experience

What is work experience?

Work experience is a short placement with an employer. It gives you a chance to try real tasks, learn about jobs and see what a workplace is like.

Who is it for?

Young people of school or college age who attend a setting or are educated at home.

Why it matters

Work experience helps you to:

Explore careers – find out what you enjoy
Build skills – like teamwork, communication and problem-solving
Grow confidence – by trying new things
Boost your CV – stand out in future applications
Make connections – meet people who can support your future

How to take part

If you're in school or college, speak to your careers leader or teacher and find out if there is a planned schedule for work experience and how it works. Your school or college may help to organise a placement. You can also organise your own additional work experience in the school holidays.

If you're home educated, you can arrange your own placement. Contact local employers or organisations directly.

Advice for parents/carers of young people on work experience

Home Education Futures - work experience overview

Getting started

Start early – don’t leave it to the last minute
Think about your interests
Look for local opportunities
Prepare a simple CV, use the CV writer in your >log on | move on> account

CV Writing

Tips for a great placement

Be on time and reliable
Be positive and willing to learn
Ask questions and show interest
Keep track of what you’ve learned, don't forget to update your CV afterwards!

What you'll gain

By the end of your placement, you should:

Understand more about different jobs
Know what skills employers look for
Feel more confident about your next steps, even if this is just crossing something off your list - it's progress

Ready to get started?

Talk to your school or start contacting local employers, look at the 'useful links' section below
Use online tools to create your CV
Begin exploring the careers that interest you