Employers will often take in to consideration any experience you have gained through programmes like this when selecting potential candidates for jobs, so work experince is really worthwhile.
Rosie Jones, a Personal Advisor from Connexions Coventry and Warwickshire
A secondary school student who spent his work experience hairdressing found it rewarding in more ways than one.
Thomas Gleed – a Year 11 student at Woodlands School and Sports College in Coventry - undertook a placement at a hair salon in the city over the summer, resulting in two job offers including professional modelling.
This is why Connexions Coventry and Warwickshire is reminding young people to think seriously about the opportunities available through work experience.
During years 10 or 11, students are offered the chance to choose a work experience placement to spend a period of time outside the classroom with an employer, learning more about the world of work.
It provides an insight in to the skills employers look for when they are looking to fill a job vacancy – as well as helping to build self-confidence and develop an awareness of what the world of work is about.
Thomas said: “I really enjoyed my time at the salon and it has definitely opened up some opportunities for me - as a result I am now working part time at a hair salon at weekends and do some professional male modelling as well.
“The work experience has helped me decide to follow a career in hairdressing when I leave school, either through an apprenticeship or college course, and I would encourage others interested in this or any other route to ask their careers advisor about the options available to them.”
Rosie Jones, a Personal Advisor from Connexions Coventry and Warwickshire, said: “Work experience placements like the one Thomas did offer a real insight in to the world of work and help prepare students for their future career .“
“Employers will often take in to consideration any experience you have gained through programmes like this when selecting potential candidates for jobs, so work experince is really worthwhile.”
Connexions Coventry and Warwickshire arrange over 10,000 placements a year for students attending secondary schools and colleges. For further details on how your organisation could get involved in offering work experience, call 02476 707400.
Connexions Coventry and Warwickshire is run by CSWP Ltd, a membership of organisations including Warwickshire County Council, Coventry City Council and the Learning & Skills Council among others.
There is a Connexions office in every secondary school and Further Education College across Coventry and Warwickshire, and also at Connexions One Stop Shops in town centre offices. To find the nearest to you, call 024 76 607900.