This February, our Year 10 pupils embraced an exciting and wide-ranging two-week work experience programme, gaining valuable insight into the professional world both locally and internationally.
The fortnight provided pupils with the opportunity to explore potential career paths, develop confidence and independence, and apply the work-ready skills they have been building in the classroom to real-world settings.
Learning Within Our Own Community
Several pupils completed their placements within school, working alongside staff in departments including administration, IT, site maintenance and pupil support at Key Stage 3. These experiences offered a fresh perspective on school life, while helping pupils to develop leadership, organisation and communication skills.
Working with Local Professionals
A number of pupils secured placements with local construction companies, where they observed project management in action, learned about site safety procedures and gained insight into the planning and teamwork involved in large-scale builds. Others spent time with local solicitors, developing an understanding of legal processes, client care and the importance of attention to detail in professional practice.
Travelling further afield
In a particularly exciting opportunity, a pupil spent a week at Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic. From shadowing ground crew to learning about aircraft operations, customer service and logistics, they experienced first-hand the fast-paced nature of the aviation industry at one of the world’s busiest airports.
Meanwhile, another travelled to the Zurich International School in Switzerland. During their time abroad, they observed lessons, supported classroom activities and experienced a different curriculum and school culture. The visit not only enhanced their understanding of international education but also encouraged independence and cultural awareness.
Pupil Reflections
One Year 10 pupil shared:
“Some days were hard, but not as hard as the work I put in! I designed on a computer, made the parts and also did a bit of welding. A wholesome experience.”
Employer Feedback
Representatives from participating organisations commented:
“Absolute credit to your school. An amazing young lady, with lovely manners, great time management and extremely efficient. We have offered her a Saturday job.”
“Max has a genuine desire to help and carry out any task he's given. His work ethic is impressive in a lad of his age. He follows instruction well and is always polite both to customers and team members.”
Looking Ahead
We are incredibly proud of the maturity, enthusiasm and professionalism demonstrated by our Year 10 pupils throughout their placements. The experience has provided them with valuable skills, greater clarity about future aspirations and a deeper understanding of the world of work.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the organisations and partners who supported our pupils this year. Their generosity and guidance continue to make this important programme such a success.
We look forward to hearing more reflections from the cohort in the coming weeks and to building on these partnerships in future years.