As part of your child’s Careers Education Advice Information and Guidance at Alder we are pleased to be able to offer the opportunity for all year 10 students to take part in a week of work experience during 12th – 16th June 2023.
To help maximising student success in gaining the best work experience possible, we will be working alongside work experience specialists ‘Changing Education’ who have established a database of over 25,000 tried and tested employers on an app called ‘CONNECT’. This variety allows them to ensure that placements match a pupil’s interests and ambitions providing a worthwhile experience for them with an opportunity to realise their potential. Students will need to download this app which takes them through the process step by staff. Further support will be given with how to do this in the launch assembly, form time tutor support and PSHE careers lessons to ensure all students are able to access the process.
Initially we will encourage students to find their own placement where possible as it develops good practice for the real world. It shows initiative and gives the employer a good first impression of the student, showcasing the student’s employability skills and personal attributes. If successful, this can in turn lead to good references, employment, a traineeship, apprenticeship, or useful networking opportunities for the future. Taking advantage of local contacts through family and friends is advised. Once a placement is found students need to upload the employer details, via the manage placements part of the Connect app. School will then verify that the placement is suitable and Changing Education will manage the risk assessment process.
The deadline for self-placement will be the end of February 2023. Again, support will be given through PSHE lessons and form time about how to self-place and the app also provides a bank of resources to support this process. If students are unsuccessful in finding their own work experience further support will be given.
If you wish to discuss work experience further, please do not hesitate to contact me at school.
Yours sincerely
T Eaton | Head of Careers | Curriculum Leader Social Science
