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.

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

Who is it for?

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

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

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

Ready to get started?

👉 Talk to your school or start contacting local employers  

👉 Use online tools to create your CV  

👉 Begin exploring the careers that interest you