Press Release
Work Experience
Work experience placements are once again being arranged. All pupils in either S3 or S4 take part in a one week work placement. Pupils in S6 are able to do a more flexible placement. 334 pupils worked with 170 employers as part of their work experience activities over the course of last year.
Work Experience is an important part of a young person’s education. It not only gives them a taste of the world of work, but also to give them the opportunity to learn outside the school environment. The pupils will gain an insight into which aspects of the job they like, and what they don't like, which can inform their future career decisions. They gain an invaluable range of work related skills and a chance to develop self-confidence and communication skills that will make them more employable. Pupils also meet a new set of people and learn about how they might fit into the working world. Work experience is a useful bridge between theory and practice, offering the chance to apply academic knowledge. Pupils have spoken highly of their experiences:
“This placement was good as it gave me an insight into the world of working and thought that it was a good choice of placement.”
“Work experience is a memorable experience. It shows you more in what certain jobs need.”
“I really enjoyed my week of work experience, going from sitting in classrooms listening to teachers and getting thrown into the world of work was great.”
Spokesperson for Education and Young People, Cllr Bill Manson said “These ‘tasters’ give students some valuable insight into work and the needs of the working world. They are invaluable in giving young people pointers toward careers and their future life. The cooperation of employers is very much valued and appreciated.”
We hope that this excellent work will carry on in the future. If anyone would like to have the opportunity to support future work experience would they please contact Katherine Sandison on Lerwick 74 4760. The Schools Service would like to thank all those employers who have given their time to support Shetland’s young people in their work experience.