Work Experience
"Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life"
Confucius
What is work experience?
All full time learners on a 16-18 study programme are required to complete 60 hours of Work Experience during their course...
Work Experience can take the form of:
Work Taster Activities: eg. Guest speakers, employer site visits, CV writing
Work Placement with employer (virtual/off-site)
Volunteering and/or taking part in social action
Running your own student enterprise
Remember, some work experience can take place online. Speak with your tutor for more details!
Introducing WAVEPOINT, your new go-to spot for ‘Work (to) Achieve Vocational Experience’ advice and support!
Need instant guidance on your work experience, or looking for on-the-spot work opportunities?
WAVEPOINT is the answer!
What is WAVEPOINT?
WAVEPOINT is not just a space; it's a drop-in haven designed to connect you with immediate work experiences. Whether you're seeking advice, opportunities, or just a productive environment, WAVEPOINT is where your career aspirations come to life!
What’s great about WAVEPOINT:
Drop-In Convenience: Swing by anytime, no appointments needed! WAVEPOINT is here for you whenever you're ready to dive into your career journey.
On-the-Spot Opportunities: Discover internships, part-time jobs, and workshops happening right now. WAVEPOINT is your direct connection to instant career-building experiences.
Peer-to-Peer Networking: Connect with fellow students in the same boat. Share insights, swap tips, and build a network that can help you ride the waves of success.
Quick CV Boost: Need to spruce up your CV ASAP? WAVEPOINT offers on-the-spot assistance to make your application stand out.
Where is WAVEPOINT:
Find WAVEPOINT on the first floor of the tower block - we are in K103A. No need to schedule – just drop in and explore the possibilities that await you. Your next work experience opportunity might be just around the corner!
Virtual work experience
You can take part in virtual work experience, as long as it facilitates a two-way interaction between yourself and the employer eg. a virtual employer talk or placement. Take a look at the following links to get involved:
WEX events and opportunities area: Where new activities are regularly updated
Speakers for Schools Platform: Virtual employer talks and virtual placements (see work ready activities page activities 8+9)
Online Learning Code of Conduct 2020.pdfstaying safe online
What should I do if I find a virtual opportunity?
Inform your tutor
Read through the online learning code of conduct
Log the activity on Grofar
why is work experience important?
Develop first hand skills required for working in your chosen industry
Opportunity to showcase your skills and attitude to a potential employer
Enhance your experience on applications or CVs
Possibility of a reference
what do i need to do?
Make sure to complete the following actions for any work experience activities:
Make sure you have evidence of the content of your work experience eg. photos, videos, files.
Add all activities to Grofar via the activity log, checking you have completed the reflection 'what I learnt form' and attached any supporting evidence.
how to use grofar
Grofar is an online platform where you will record and track your Work Experience programme. Please take a look at the guides below for more information...
- Logging and tracking work experience activities:
1.-student-video-adding-grofar-link-to-homepage (1).mp4Adding Grofar link to device
2.-student-video-logging-in (1).mp4How to log in to Grofar
3.-student-video-navigating portal and homepage (1).mp4Navigating the Grofar portal and homepage
4.-student-video-adding activities.mp4How to add and track activities
grofar-student-guide-to-adding-activities_final.docxTake a look at this extra guide for how to add and track activities...
2. Logging and tracking work placements:
Overview of Managing Your Placement on Grofar (1).mp4Overview of managing your placements
How to submit a placement request students.mp4How to submit a placement request
How to Log Placement Hours & Experiences.mp4How to log placement hours and experiences
grofar-wex-student-portal-benefits-hallway-google-1.pdfGrofar benefits
grofar placements overview
how to find a work placement
You can identify and research employer opportunities from a wide range of different sources, including...
how to apply for a placement?
Make sure that you have an up to date CV
Be prepared to call, email or send a letter to a prospective employer
Keep your tutor updated every step of the way - the College will need to complete health and safety checks to ensure your safety in the workplace before you start the placement
Top tip: Always ask to speak to the manager, and try to find out their name in advance!
How to contact Employers Guide.docxRead through this document to find out how to contact and speak to employers
Work Experience letter template.docxDownload and edit this template letter to help get in touch with an employer