Work Experience - Information for Parents

Why does my son/daughter go out on Work Experience?

There are many reasons, perhaps the most important one is to prepare them for, and give them an opportunity to taste life outside school.

Other reasons include:

• To develop a range of personal skills and qualities;

• To give them an opportunity to find out what full time work is like;

• To add value to their school curriculum;

• Chance to learn what is expected of an employee;

• Opportunity to meet different people in a new situation;

• To develop their personal and social skills.

Key skills which will be developed include:

• Communication;

• Application of number;

• Information Technology;

• Working with others;

• Improving own learning and performance;

• Problem solving.

When will it take place?

Schools vary.  Your child's school will advise of the relevant dates.

How long does it last?

Work Experience normally lasts for two weeks.

What sort of job will my son/daughter be doing?

The type of job they will do depends on which local businesses agree to take pupils.  Opportunities can range from gardening to manufacturing, retail to construction.

How far will my son/daughter have to travel?

This usually depends on the availability of placements in their local area.  Please inform the school if there is a problem with travelling.

Will students receive a travel allowance?

As a general rule NO.  Pupils must bear this in mind when making their selections.  Occasionally employers may contribute towards travel expenses.

Will my son/daughter get paid?

No.  By law, payments are not allowed for pupils on work placements.  This is because it is regarded as part of their schooling.

Will it affect my son's/daughter's education and/or examination results?

Yes, it adds value to the curriculum and broadens their experience.

What happens if my son/daughter is sick?

The placement provider and the school must be informed immediately.  Please indicate the possible return date.

Is lunch provided?

Sometimes the employer will provide lunch (job descriptions normally inform students if this is the case). Most students usually take a packed lunch or money so that they can purchase lunch in a staff canteen or local shop.

Will my son/daughter be insured?

Yes, all businesses taking students for work placements are insured to do this.

Can my son/daughter choose what he/she will be doing?

As far as possible, schools like to give pupils the opportunity to choose their preferred area of work.  Please remember that the choice should be made by your son/daughter.  They will complete an application form indicating preferred areas of work.  You will be asked to sign this.  Please check that you agree with the details.

What hours will my son/daughter work?

Starting and finishing times will vary from job to job, so ask your child to look carefully at their job description and note times.  Although the timing may differ from normal school hours, all are within a legal framework.

Does anyone check my child's progress whilst on Work Experience?

Yes, they should receive at least one visit from a school representative during their placement.

What happens if my child has a problem on the placement?

First of all they must speak to their supervisor.  If they feel that they are unable to do this, they must telephone their school and a teacher will help.

Can my child find their own placement?

Yes, if they do this they must give the name of the person in charge, the address and telephone number to their Work Experience Co-ordinator in school.  They must ask their Work Experience Co-ordinator for a self-placement form, which must be completed in full and handed into school  by the required deadline.

All employers will be visited to ensure the necessary insurances and Health and Safety legislation are in place.

 For further information on Work Experience, contact Linda Taylor on 01254 584058 or via email at linda.taylor@lebp.co.uk