Work
Temporary and seasonal work
Work experience
What you need to know
You will have the opportunity to do two weeks work experience during your last two years of compulsory education - Years 10 and 11.
Work placements are usually arranged through your school or college.
You'll not get paid for the hours you do but you should not be expected to buy any special clothing or equipment - this should be provided by your employer.
The number of hours you work should be decided between yourself, your employer, school, and your parents or carers.
Work experience will help you to understand what it might be like to work in a particular job. This will help you decide what you want to do for a career and also develop skills and attitudes essential for the world of work.
If you are a disabled student, health and safety legislation may stop you work placements in some places. This is because health and safety rules in the workplace takes priority over the Disability Discrimination Act.
However, if you are a disabled young person and want to go into work, you are entitled to the same job opportunities as anyone else.
What you can do
- Research all the careers information you can and learn about different jobs and careers. This will help you to get some ideas and think about what type of work experience you would like to do.
- Have a couple of ideas just in case. Some work placements may be popular and you may not get your first choice.
- Talk to your Careers Teacher or Connexions Direct Adviser first to find out what work experience opportunities your school, college or local Connexions Centre can offer.
- If your school cannot provide a placement speak to family and friends or check with local companies or organisations. Remember to check with your school, college or Connexions Direct Adviser to see if the placement will be suitable for you.
- Before you start get agreed what you will be expected to do, the hours you will work and who you will report to.
- If you are physically disabled and have specific access needs check that the premises where you will be doing your work experience are suitable for you.
