Getting practical work experience can help to develop your skills and knowledge of the subject you are studying and it introduces you to the world of work, providing you with the real life experience of what it is like to work in your chosen industry or career.
If you don’t have a specific career or job in mind then work experience or a placement can help you to decide.
What is a work placement/experience?
A work placement is where you complete a period of supervised work at a business so you gain an understanding of a job role and the working environment. In some cases, you may have to undertake a selection process/interview which will be carried out by the business.
Work experience is the replication of working in a real environment. You will gain an understanding of the types of activities you would do and see the real working conditions.
This can take place on College premises within simulated working environments or you may have the opportunity to participate in activities outside of College.
Why should I do a work placement/experience?
- Help you decide if your career goals are right.
- Give you an insight into the way businesses operate and the challenges they face.
- Increase your skills and knowledge.
- Provide you with networking opportunities.
- Help you to understand a particular job or industry.
What are the benefits?
- It can look impressive on your CV and your manager could provide a reference for future job or UCAS applications.
- You could have a chance to attend in-company training courses.
- Allows you to apply what you have learnt in the classroom to real-world professional situations.
- Although you do not get paid, you get other benefits that more than make up for the time you spend.
- It can help you enhance your CV and demonstrate that you have a pro-active state of mind; an employer will be more impressed that you acquired work experience whilst still studying and that you have an understanding of the industry.
How long do they last?
This will vary and you may be required to work one to two days a week or do a block placement over the academic year as part of your timetable.
What if I require additional learning support?
We will ensure that you have the appropriate levels of support put in place during work experience/placement.
Already found a work placement/experience opportunity?
We will:
- Contact the business and agree the work that you will carry out.
- Ensure the proposed opportunity is safe and relevant to your studies.
In a situation where the proposed opportunity is considered to be unsuitable we will try to find an appropriate alternative. Please note that existing part-time work cannot be accepted as work placement.
Last updated: 6th February 2023