Benefits of Work-Based Learning for Students

• Develop positive relationships with adults that support growth and development

• Network for gainful employment opportunities

• Gain hands-on learning work experience

• Develop employability skills

• Increase exposure to new environments & expectations

Benefits of Work-Based Learning for Employers

• Develop a more robust talent pipeline

• Access a diverse and innovative labor pool

• Earn a reputation for being a great place to work

• Build your own workforce pipeline while supporting your community

• Engage and motivate current employees through mentorships

Types of WBL

• Job Shadow – Typically reserved for juniors and seniors, students observe a worker on the job for a half or full day, unpaid experience. This experience is coordinated by the Career Development Coordinator.

• Mentorship – Students develop a mentor/mentee relationship with a professional on a more frequent basis than job shadowing. The frequency varies and the experience is unpaid.

• Internship – Students complete tasks on-the-job. A high school credit can be earned for 120 work experience hours, and the internship can be paid or unpaid.

• Youth Apprenticeship – Students participate in education and training approved by ApprenticeshipNC. A high school credit can be earned for 120 work experience hours, and the apprenticeship can be paid or unpaid. 

Students should contact their school’s Career Development Coordinator or School Counselor to learn more and apply.

Employers can learn more by reviewing the BCS CTE Work-Based Learning Guide for Employers or contacting Dr. Daniel Richardson, Career Ready Coordinator (drichardson@bcswan.net)

CTE + Employers = A Strong Workforce

Brunswick County Public Schools relies on strong partnerships with local employers, post-secondary education institutions, and community leaders to facilitate students’ career development progression and career preparedness. These partnerships help us make learning more relevant by connecting students to today’s workplaces and the skills needed to thrive in them.

How Can You Support BCS Efforts?

• Sharing your expertise as a guest presenter

• Opening your doors for tours and job shadowing

• Accepting student interns for paid or unpaid work experiences

• Participating in mock interviews, mentorships, job fairs, and career fairs

• Welcoming teachers for tours and externships to enhance their content knowledge

• Developing a pre-Apprenticeship or Apprenticeship program

• Providing program guidance on a CTE advisory council

• Advocating for CTE programs and funding for the benefit of the overall economy

Interested in providing opportunities for students?

You can help BCS provide opportunities for students by completing the BCS WBL Employer Registration at the link below.

BCS WBL Employer Registration >>