Work Experience

Unit Summary

Developing Experts Virtual Work Experience Programme

Unit Overview

The Developing Experts Virtual Work Experience Programme is a structured suite of resources designed to support schools in delivering a high-quality work experience programme, whether alongside or in place of traditional in-person placements.

Recognising that securing in-person placements can be challenging for some students, this programme ensures that all learners have access to meaningful, career-focused experiences. It enables schools to provide a consistent, inclusive approach to work experience that develops key employability skills, builds confidence, and supports informed decision-making about future pathways.

Purpose of the Programme

• To ensure every student can access work experience, regardless of availability of placements
• To support schools in delivering a coherent, structured work experience journey
• To develop employability skills, including communication, resilience, and professionalism
• To strengthen links between education, employers, and families
• To align with key frameworks such as the Gatsby Benchmarks, particularly experiences of workplaces and encounters with employers

Programme Structure

The programme is designed to guide students, parents, staff, and employers through the full work experience journey—from preparation to reflection.

1. Student Assembly: Introduction to Work Experience

Introduces students to the purpose and value of work experience.
Students explore:

• Why work experience matters
• What to expect
• How it links to future careers

2. Student Workshop: How to Apply for Your Work Experience Placement

Supports students in securing placements by developing:

• Application writing skills
• Communication with employers
• Confidence in presenting themselves professionally

3. Student Briefing: Preparing for Your Work Experience Placement

Prepares students for the workplace by covering:

• Professional behaviour and expectations
• Health and safety awareness
• Making a positive first impression

4. Parent Briefing: Preparing for Your Child’s Work Experience Placement

Engages parents and carers by:

• Explaining the purpose of work experience
• Providing guidance on how to support their child
• Clarifying expectations and responsibilities

5. Student Reflection: Post Work Experience Placement

Encourages students to reflect on their experience, helping them to:

• Identify skills developed
• Evaluate their interests
• Link experiences to future pathways

6. Employer Briefing: Preparing to Host a Work Experience Placement

Supports employers in delivering meaningful placements by:

• Outlining expectations
• Providing guidance on supporting young people
• Ensuring a safe and productive experience

7. Student and Parent Workshop: Creating Your Own Work Experience Placement

Provides an alternative pathway where placements are limited.
Students and families are supported to:

• Identify opportunities within their own networks
• Design bespoke work experience experiences
• Take ownership of their career development

8. Staff Briefing: Work Experience

Supports school staff in planning and delivering the programme by:

• Providing a clear framework for implementation
• Ensuring consistency across cohorts
• Supporting tracking and evaluation

Key Features

• Flexible delivery: Can be used as a full programme or targeted support
• Inclusive access: Ensures all students benefit, including those unable to secure placements
• Real-world relevance: Focuses on practical skills and workplace readiness
• Whole-school approach: Engages students, staff, parents, and employers

Impact

Through this programme, students will:

• Gain a clearer understanding of the workplace
• Develop confidence and employability skills
• Be better prepared for future education and career decisions

For schools, the programme provides a reliable and scalable solution to delivering high-quality work experience, ensuring no student misses out.