The Project
Experiences of the Workplace is a multi-day work experience programme designed to give Year 10 students meaningful insight into the world of work. Delivered in partnership with employers and host venues such as universities, colleges and community spaces, the programme provides young people with structured opportunities to explore different sectors, understand local labour market opportunities, and develop key employability skills.
The programme has been delivered successfully with cohorts of students from schools across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay and will continue to run with future groups as part of the Careers Hub’s commitment to high-quality workplace experiences
Aims of the project
The programme aims to:
- Provide high-quality experiences of the workplace, particularly for students who ordinarily may face barriers to accessing a placement themselves
- Broaden students’ understanding of different sectors, roles and career pathways
- Increase awareness of post-16 options including apprenticeships, college, T Levels and sixth form
- Help students identify and develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability
- Build confidence, motivation and improve decision-making ability
What does it involve?
The programme is typically delivered over multiple consecutive days and is structured around interactive, employer-led sessions. Students take part in practical challenges, group activities and discussions designed to reflect real workplace environments.
Across the programme, students:
- Meet employers from a range of sectors including construction, engineering, health and care, creative industries, environmental and land-based careers
- Learn about different job roles, routes into work and local employment opportunities
- Take part in hands-on activities that develop employability and teamwork skills
- Reflect on their strengths, interests and next steps for education and careers
Delivery takes place in professional settings such as universities, colleges or employer venues, helping students experience expectations around punctuality, behaviour and participation similar to those found in the workplace.
he programme is inclusive by design and has successfully engaged students from a range of backgrounds, including those with additional needs or those who may be underrepresented in traditional work experience opportunities.
Participating Employers
To date we have over 30 employers supporting this project. These include:
- KIER
- M Group
- MOD
- MVV
- NHS
- PKF Francis Clark
- Plymouth Community Homes
- Real Ideas
- Royal Horticulture Society
- Santander
- Skills Group
- UK Hydrographic Office
- University of Plymouth
- Womble Bond Dickinson
- Young Enterprise
- AECOM
- Arla Food
- Art of Ltd
- Arts University Plymouth
- Babcock
- Bailey Partnership
- Balfour Beatty
- BigWave
- Building Plymouth
- Caerus
- Caring Plymouth
- City College Plymouth
- Coops and Co
- EE
- Greenlight