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 | What is work experience all about? |
| Work experience takes place during Years 10 or 11 and is designed to give you a taste of working life. It lasts at least a week and requires that you become an 'employee', taking on various responsibilities and learning various skills. Work experience can take place in any type of employment outside school but you are not allowed to receive payment for their work and must be supervised at all times.
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| Does the work experience have to relate to the job someone eventually wants to do? |
| No, although it can be related to a career choice if you have already decided what you want to do. The experience of working is the main benefit of work experience. Other outcomes include learning new skills, being organised about getting to and from work, appropriate behaviour and mixing with an adult work-force. |
| Is it useful to have a part-time job like Saturday work or a paper round? |
| Part-time work can give you some experience of the world of work and can make you feel more independent, more in control of your life. The feeling of working with a 'real purpose' - even if it's only to get extra pocket money - is a rewarding experience for most young people. The other side of the coin is that it may take time away from an important year in terms of school-work. Learning to balance your time effectively is a valuable skill. |
| How can parents help young people focus on career plans? |
| There is a fine dividing line between laying down the law and leaving a your son/ daughter to their own devices. Timing is crucial. There will be times when they want to talk about the future and others when they are only interested in the present. As a parent or guardian you can judge best when those times are. Be ready to give helpful suggestions, perhaps providing some information leaflets that just 'happen to be around'.
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| How are parents involved at the career interview stage? |
| Parents have the right to be involved with at least some of the careers interviews and consultations that take place at Key Stage 4. However, a recent survey showed that at least 80% of young people preferred their parents or guardians not to be present as they felt this took away their independence and control during the interview. Careers Advisers or teachers are usually happy to discuss matters with parents separately if they wish. |
