Why do Work Experience?
Work Experience provides an opportunity for students to undertake full time work, in an environment that differs significantly from that of school. The purpose of Work Experience is not necessarily for students to decide upon the career which they wish to pursue; instead the emphasis is on working in the ‘real world’ and understanding how organisations operate, as well as working with different people and having the opportunity to try something new and interesting.
Work Experience at Paignton Academy
The Academy will now select those students who have demonstrated through an application form willingness, understanding and enthusiasm to take part in Work Experience. The same application process will also apply to those pupils who find their ‘own placement’ and out of county placements. Students will start their applications in Year 10 (July) and will take part in a week of work experience when they are in Year 11 (December).
Help and support from family members and staff is encouraged. However, it is important that students complete the form themselves as this is a valuable part of the Work Experience Programme and will help to develop their understanding and ability to complete future job/ course application forms.
Legal Requirement
The law requires that checks are made on all placements with regard to Health & Safety and Insurance. In the event of the schools external party not endorsing a placement, the pupil will NOT be permitted to attend. If the student does not attend an endorsed placement, or does not come into school they will be marked with an unauthorised absence. We will of course contact and advise you, should this apply to your child’s placement.
Work Experience 2017 will take place from the 4th-8th December 2017
Work Experience Letter 19.06.2017
Work Experience Application Form 2017
Work Experience Parent Consent Form 2017
Finding your own placement: letter to Parents: 2017
Own Placement Employer Form 2017
How to find WE Placements Presentation: 2017
Letter asking for a Work Experience Placement
Students who do not have a work placement will be expected in school for their normal lessons.
For further information please speak to a member of staff in the Careers Office situated on the Borough Road site next door to the 6th Form Common Room.
Useful Websites
For the information you need simply click on the relevant icon:
Student Ladder: information on over 1500 Work Placements, Graduate Schemes and Internship opportunities for 16-24 year old students.
Step into the NHS: guide to finding work experience in the NHS.
Directions: details of work experience in big, high profile companies such as banks and the finance sector.
BBC: how to arrange work experience with the BBC.
