Work Experience

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What is work experience?

During term-time at school you should get the chance to go on work experience which is your opportunity to spend a period of time outside classroom. If you are considering a particular career, this is an ideal way to see if you will actually enjoy the types of work involved. Work experience is your opportunity to learn about a particular job or area of work. Even if your work experience is not in a job that you are seriously considering, you can still learn a great deal from it.

What will I learn?

Skills that employers look for when they’re hiring someone to fill a job vacancy.
Develop your self-confidence working in an environment outside of the classroom.
Skills and attitudes essential for the world of work.
It will be a completely different routine, having to travel to work and be on time every day. This will improve your organisation and time management skills.

When will I undertake work experience?

At school work experience takes place during term time, either in Year 10 or Year 11. You may also have work placements or work experience arranged through your sixth form or college. Work experience is not compulsory but many employers think that it is very useful.

How to organise a work placement

Where possible, your placement will be arranged through your school, sixth form or college. Usually they will have lists of work placements that you put your name down for, with up to 3 choices. In some schools, sixth forms or colleges you can find your own placement.

During and after your placement

On your first day you will be introduced to a supervisor or mentor who will support you through your placement. They will introduce you to other employees and give you a guided tour. They will also outline their expectations and any rules in place to protect your health and safety. It’s important that you ask lots of questions especially if you are unsure about anything! Keep a log of your duties and activities as this will help you evaluate the benefits of your placement. For young people in years 9 and 10 this may be your first introduction to the world of work. Work experience from year 11 onwards is often an introduction to your chosen career path. Therefore it’s essential that you include details of your work experiences and your duties when you start developing your CV.

Useful websites

National Council for Work Experience
Promoting, supporting and developing quality work experience for the benefits of students, organisations and the economy.

DirectGov – Work Experience
Further advice on work experience in years 10 and 11.

Careers Library
Visit our careers library for information on jobs and careers in your chosen area of interest.

Last updated: 20/06/11

Your Comments

Posted - 09:44, 25 Aug 2009

i am coming up in year 11 and i would like to work on a thursday for my asdan course

Posted - 09:49, 25 Aug 2009

Hi thanks for your comment. ASDAN is a course that is run by many schools and Educational establishments. You school is responsible for finding placements and work experience for young people. This is often done through a company called TRIDENT. Once your school is satisfied that the employer has the correct insurance in place, they will discuss the types of work you can undertake whilst still in Education. Employers do not pay young people whilst they are on work placement/experience. Please speak to your school and if you have had an offer of work with an employer a form will have to be signed by the employer, the young person’s parents/guardian and the school. Good luck with your course in year 11, please contact Connexions if you have any concerns. Connexions PA

Posted - 04:28, 03 Nov 2009

Where can i do work experience thats in Essex/ Canary Wharf which includes the jobs fashion journalist or fashion buyer.

Posted - 09:42, 10 Nov 2009

Hi thanks for your comment. Most young people arrange their work experience through their school. Schools work with a company called TRIDENT and all work placements are checked out to ensure they have met necessary requirements to protect your well-being. A good place to start is by speaking to your careers teacher in school to find out if they know of any placements available in Canary wharf. You can try also searching the internet for fashion industries in Canary Wharf. You can then contact companies explaining what you would like to undertake work experience, but speak to your adviser in school first about how to go about this as there are procedures in place. In addition you should think about how you would get there safely as this is an important factor to consider. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 09:43, 24 Nov 2009

where can i do work experience that is around southend and rayliegh which involves working with children?

Posted - 05:08, 25 Nov 2009

Hi thanks for your comment. Your message did not say how old you are? If you are still at school your work experience will be arranged by your teachers in school through an agency called Trident. They hold information on work experience opportunities in your area. If you would like to look for your own placement speak with your school about the procedure for doing this. You could start by look at a website called www.daynurseries.co.uk. This gives a listing of all nurseries and child care providers in Essex. In addition you could visit www.essex-eyjobs.co.uk for further careers information relating to childcare. Good luck in finding a work experience placement, if you need any support in looking at careers in childcare please call into your local Connexions centre or make an appointment with your personal advisor based in your school. Connexions PA

Posted - 02:21, 05 Jul 2010

Hi I have just finished year 11 and am looking to do some extra work experience involving languages. Are there any placements in London that you could suggest?

Posted - 01:03, 12 Jul 2010

Hi, in response to your question about work experience in languages we would suggest you contact local travel agencies and tourist information centres. You can also try language schools as it may be possible to carry out work shadowing. If you can afford it you may want to consider doing voluntary work in another country, this may involve fundraising to cover your cost as most voluntary placements abroad ask you to pay for your own transport and accommodation costs. Many young people in their gap year decide to work abroad so try visiting: www.workingabroad.com www.realgap.co.uk/Paid-work-abroad You can find further useful websites in our careers library under ‘Languages, Information and Culture’. You can access this from the careers library logo at the top right of our homepage. The national resource website for careers with languages is: www.languageswork.org.uk We’d suggest you send letters and CV’s to any company that you are interested in working with, let them know what your career aims are and when you are available to work. Best of luck Connexions PA

Posted - 10:32, 22 Jul 2010

Hi, I am looking for ideas for year 10 work experience to do with media, theatre or journalism. My school doesn't organise our work experience, we have to, and I was wondering if you had any interesting ideas. I have contacted a few magazines and theatres, but quite a lot say that i am too young, have you got any ideas?

Posted - 04:59, 30 Jul 2010

Hi, we are pleased you have decided on what career path you would like to do your work experience in. There are a range of places you can try. The BBC offers a wide range of work placements, from the age of 14 -18 , in radio, television and interactive. Try visiting: www.bbc.co.uk/workexperience Have you considered approaching hospital radio, local radio and local newspaper companies in addition to magazine and theatre? A good way to find out about work experience is through media organisations like the Sector Skills Council for Creative Media, The National Union of Journalists and the British Film Institute: http://www.skillset.org http://www.nuj.org.uk http://www.bfi.org.uk These websites may give you ideas of what companies to approach. Remember, work experience can also help you to decide what you do and don’t want to do in the future. If you need any further support call into one of our Connexions Centres and someone will be more than happy to help you with any enquiries you may have. Good luck with your work experience, Connexions

Posted - 10:45, 10 Aug 2010

Hey, I am going to be in year 11 next year. I would like to get a work placement this summer, though. I don't have any specific job type, hopefully banking? Any ideas? Thank You.

Posted - 05:24, 12 Aug 2010

Hi thanks for getting in touch. There are lots of opportunities available over the summer. Try visiting Vinspired http://vinspired.com This site connects 16-25 year olds with a wide range of volunteering opportunities, so you are bound to find something of interest. If you are under 16 usually work experience is arranged through your school however you can get part-time work in the following areas: agriculture/horticulture, delivering newspapers/leaflets, local shops – shelf stacking, salons – sweeping up and washing clients hair, hand car wash establishments, waitressing, riding stables, domestic work and in local offices. Your school may have access to careers education guidance software packages which you can use, such as Fast Tomato or Kudos. These programs can help you when considering future career options. Speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser or your school’s Careers Co-ordinator for more information. To find out more about careers in banking visit the financial services area of our careers library for a list of useful websites that will give you further information: http://www.essexconnexions.co.uk/finance Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 08:36, 01 Sep 2010

Hi, am going into Yr 10 in September. Really wanted to join police force but they don't accept work experience. Can you give me some idea where to try next?

Posted - 05:13, 22 Sep 2010

Hi I am currently in year 11 and I want to do work experience that is related to geography, what kind of thing could i do?

Posted - 05:03, 02 Oct 2010

Hi, I'm currently in Yr 10 and based in Essex. I've got to look for work experience on my own, and am looking for a place that deals with media such as a radio station, newspaper etc - preferably a place that will allow me to do only one week there, as that is the amount of time my school have given me. Do you have any ideas of what I could do? Thank you!

Posted - 10:34, 04 Oct 2010

Hi thanks for getting in-touch. Geography is a wide sector and there are a number of different roles out there. You might be able to volunteer at a local wildlife trust or anywhere which does conservation work. You could also try your local council’s planning offices or a law firm that specialises in environmental cases. Try visiting Lantra the Sector Skills Council for the environment & land-based sector which may give you further inspiration. http://www.lantra.co.uk. You can also visit Jobs4u http://www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u a careers database which may help you find inspiration. For further support visit your local Connexions Centre and speak to a Personal Adviser. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 03:33, 04 Oct 2010

Hi, we are pleased to read you have decided on what career path you would like to do your work experience in. Work experience is about finding out about the different careers involved in your career path and narrowing down the options available to you. Work experience will allow you to spend time out of the classroom understanding the skills employers will look for when recruiting. Your school will have a procedure in place for organising work experience but usually you will have the option to source your own, subject to the schools procedures. Try approaching local newspapers and magazine companies or local radio/hospital radio stations. Speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser at your nearest centre for more information and advice. In addition look out for BBC Blast events (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blast) and check out Vinspired (http://vinspired.com) a website connecting young people aged 16-25 with volunteering opportunities in England. Good luck with your search, Connexions

Posted - 06:14, 07 Oct 2010

Hi. My school does offer to arange work experience but the do encourage if you sort it out by your self, by getting the company you want to fill out forms. i've google work experience in essex for year 10s and i have found nothing, just more links and getting nowhere. i would really want to do something in either forensic science and/or medicine or law... do you have any ideas where i could start to arrange any work experience (any companies or websites), please? thanks.

Posted - 03:15, 11 Oct 2010

Hi, we’re pleased to read that you have decided the career path you would like to gather an insight into. It is very hard to get work experience in forensic science as a lot of cases may end up in court, or their might be data protection issues preventing you to do many roles. You can find useful information from www.forensic.gov.uk or try http://www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u and search for forensic science, law or medicine. You should be aware that currently there are lots of young people leaving university and struggling to find work in this sector. This is due to the heavy demand and limited opportunities in this specialist field, especially as there are over 100 forensic science courses on offer at universities. This year Key Forensic Services Ltd recruited 11 people out of 500 applicants. Experience of lab work, or anything in the sciences is useful although any work experience placement will offer you the chance to learn new skills and abilities such as time management and organisational skills, team working or better communication skills. Some GP surgeries or law firms offer placements but generally duties will be mainly administrative, but this can prove to be a good first step in the learning curve. Talk to your school about placements available. We would also suggest that you make an appointment with a Connexions PA in school or at your local Connexions Centre. The team at Connexions hope you find a successful placement.

Posted - 06:56, 16 Oct 2010

Hi, I am in year 12 and i'm currently looking for work experience to do with forensic science/forensic photography or criminal investigation, do you have any advice on where i may be able to find work experience?

Posted - 01:17, 18 Oct 2010

Hi, thank you for writing to us. Please get in touch with Essex Police on 0300 333 4444 and speak to Louise Linzell-Williams or go to their website: www.essex.police.uk/recruitment/work_experience.aspx They are now taking bookings for 2011. Also please visit your local Connexions office (not sure what area you live in) but you can find your nearest centre on the website.

Posted - 07:21, 18 Oct 2010

Hi, I am in year 10 and i'm currently looking for work experience to do with Sport that could last for 2 weeks

Posted - 03:15, 19 Oct 2010

Thank you for writing to us. Please visit your nearest Connexions Centre (see the website). They will have knowledge of the area. You could apply to your local Leisure Centre, if there is one or check out the Yellow Pages for businesses in your area that deal with Sport. Visit your Connexions office first so that they can give you all the advice you need before contacting employers. Good luck with your search.

Posted - 04:37, 20 Oct 2010

I am 14 and want to do my work experience at a radio station However they only accept over 18's. What can I do ?

Posted - 03:37, 22 Oct 2010

Hi, thank you for writing to us. There are radio stations, such as Gateway FM in Basildon, that accept under 18s depending on where you live. Please visit your local Connexions office (see website) who will have details of any opportunities in your area. Good luck with your search. Connexions

Posted - 12:46, 27 Oct 2010

I’m in year 10 and I have to do work experience, I would like to do it in forensic science but I don’t know where to start or look please help.

Posted - 03:25, 27 Oct 2010

Hi – thanking you for contacting us. Please get in touch with Essex Police on 0300 333 4444 and speak to Louise Linzell-Williams or go their website: www.essex.police.uk/recruitment/work_experience.aspx . They are now taking bookings for 2011. Also please visit your local Connexions Office – you can find their address on the website

Posted - 04:01, 03 Nov 2010

Hey. im in year 10, and i live in birmingham, i want to have a career in forensic science, but with the crime scene investigation team (c.s.i) But its hard to find things on the internet to help with work experience in this career choice. so i was wondering what to do as my work experience is in june 2011 but my application has to be in before hand.

Posted - 12:35, 05 Nov 2010

Hi thanks for getting in touch, we would suggest you visit your Connexions Services in Birmingham. You can find details of your local centre by visiting www.connexions-direct.com and clicking on the local services tab. An adviser may be able to make you aware of any opportunities particularly within the local constabulary. Try visiting www.connexions-direct.com/job4u and searching ‘crime scene investigator’ for information about the tasks involved and the qualities needed. Then you can look for work experience opportunities that will help you develop these personal qualities. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 10:02, 09 Nov 2010

Hey, Im trying to look for work experience in london, but so far everyone ive called has rejected me. Id like to work in a retail shop, in Central london or anything close to london but dont know how to go about doing it. Can you give me a few tips, please? Thanks in advance

Posted - 10:02, 10 Nov 2010

Firstly you need to make you sure you have a good CV that reflects your passion, enthusiasm & skills, together with a speculative letter that introduces you to prospective bosses (even if only for a few weeks!). Both of these documents are your selling points. A Connexions PA can support you with these, as well as using this website, to find out more information on them. I would encourage you to apply to big retailers on-line, for example the ‘Arcadia Group’ who own Top Shop, Miss Selfridges, Wallis plus many offers. They have a careers website, check out www.arcadiagroup.co.uk. Sometimes with big websites such as this, they won’t always clearly state work experience, it may well be the case you will have to call their customer service line or email them to find out more. The other thing to try is using yell.com to find addresses of employers you would like to work for and post your CV & speculative letter. Good luck and remember we are always here to help! Connexions PA

Posted - 11:53, 18 Nov 2010

Hi , im in year 10 and live in essex/londen type are. im looking for work experiance to be revolved around dance. Where can i go?

Posted - 01:04, 20 Nov 2010

hello, I moved to Southend while I was in year 10 and i missed out on the chance to do work exprience, do I need to find a placement and if so how can i find one in Southend?

Posted - 08:55, 24 Nov 2010

Hi, firstly you need to speak with the Teacher who is organising work experience as they may know of the opportunities that will be available to you & other students within your year. Other things you can do is to use yell.com to find companies/dance schools, also could look at the adverts in local papers, in our area the paper is the ‘Chronicle’ which has huge lists of companies/dances schools/performing arts clubs etc, get there addresses from these. Then send them a letter asking them to consider taking you on for work experience. Remember on this letter to include your skills and your passion for dance. You must also inform School as you will need to get a form that you will need for organising your own work experience. Remember your School Connexions PA will be able to help you write the letter and help you search for places, so speak to your tutor about getting an appointment. Good luck! Connexions PA

Posted - 09:25, 24 Nov 2010

I hope you’re now settled in your new school. If you haven’t already, please talk to your new school to find out if you have missed out on work experience with them. If you have and would like to experience a placement, things you could do are: Join a local club such as cadets (checkout www.essexyounglife.co.uk), put yourself forward to be involved in local Youth Groups (your local Connexions pa & youth worker can give you information) or consider doing voluntary work (check out www.v-inspired.com), could do this by giving up one evening a week or using a few days from your School holidays. All of these would provide you with fantastic opportunities to meet new people, learn about industries or situations and will teach and/or build on your skills such as, team work and communication. Let us know how you’re getting on!

Posted - 08:23, 07 Dec 2010

Hi I am doing work experience in yr 11 and would like to go into forensic science. Have you any ideas were I could do this in the Romford area Thanks

Posted - 01:56, 08 Dec 2010

Hi thanks for getting in touch. It is difficult to find places for work experience in year 11. Try visiting http://www.forensic.gov.uk/ the forensic science service, as this may give you an idea of the types of industries to approach. As you live in the Romford area I would suggest that you visit your nearest Connexions service in Havering. Visit http://www.haveringyouth.co.uk for further details. Connexions

Posted - 03:25, 07 Jan 2011

Hi, i am currently in year 10 and have been told by college to apply for work experience between the dates of 20th junes - 1st july, ideally in the west midlands, birmingham area. However, we only have a couple of weeks left to secure a placement, and i am strugglingto find one. Most companies I am intrested in only except age 18+, either have no replied to my emails, or have told me they do not offer work experience on these dates. I am very intrested in working within the media (either as a journalist or presenter for TV or radio), but am finding it extremely hard to secure work experience placements for this. Have you any idea of what companies I should apply to ? I have tried over 50 companies (including local stations and businesses) but none have responded ? Many thanks.

Posted - 08:12, 09 Jan 2011

hi, i am currently searching for work experience in year 10. i am intrested in fashion, art, photgraphy and hair and beauty if their is anything that you could possibly give me to help me with my searches i would be most thankful :)

Posted - 10:26, 10 Jan 2011

Hi, you have contacted the Connexions service for the Essex region, so won’t be able to give you localised advice. I’d suggest you visit Connexions Direct www.connexions-direct.com and click on the local services tab to find details of your local Connexions centre. From the companies you have not heard back from via email, I’d suggest you follow up with a polite telephone call explaining you are looking for work experience, following up your initial email. Our careers library offers links to sector skills councils in media. From the left hand navigation ‘Job search’, ‘Careers library’, ‘Media, print and publishing’. This should give you a greater insight into the jobs available within media. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 10:26, 10 Jan 2011

Hi, we would suggest that you speak to your school about the process for sourcing your own placement. Then you can approach local companies, with a parent/carer, to see if they can offer you a placement. A search of the Yellow Pages may help. Our careers library offers links to sector skills councils in the industries you’ve listed. From the left hand navigation ‘Job search’, ‘Careers library’. This should give you a greater insight into the types of job/roles available. For further advice speak to the personal adviser linked to your school or call into your nearest Connexions Centre. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 03:48, 17 Jan 2011

Hello i was wondering if any one can help me find work experiance within the forensic science (csi) area

Posted - 02:28, 20 Jan 2011

hi my son is doing work experience in july an really wants to do forensics, i have been in touch with the police force but they are fully booked this year. We live in luton but are prepared to travel a little. have you any advice for me? Thanks

Posted - 08:29, 20 Jan 2011

hi. im in year 10 and im looking for any available work experiences in Canary wolf or anywhere in the central london... thats involves maths, chemistry and art and fashion.

Posted - 12:03, 21 Jan 2011

Hi thanks for contacting the Connexions service for Essex. Your son should ideally look for jobs in labs or any science/maths related placements. Because of security implications it is unlikely your son will find any placements at Forensic Science service providers. There are many roles within Forensic Science including: Scene of Crime Officers, Forensic Boiologists/Chemists/Toxicologists and Fingerprint Officers. The Skills for Justice Website http://www.skillsforjustice.com provides details of courses that will be beneficial for your son pursuing a career in this field. It’s important that your son researches the current labour market as competition for jobs within Forensic Science is fierce. You can also visit http://www.heacademy.ac.uk/forensic_careers for in-depth information. Your son should speak to an adviser in your local Connexions Centre for information about local organisations he could approach. Visit Connexions Direct to find details of his local centre www.connexions-direct.com. We wish your son the best of luck, Connexions.

Posted - 12:29, 21 Jan 2011

Hi, thanks for getting in-touch. Unfortunately our advisers do not have the local knowledge of Central London to advise you further. We would suggest you do some research on the internet to see what organisations there are that can offer you a placement. Our Career Library (link available towards the top right-hand corner of our Homepage) sections for ‘Maths, Science and Statistics’ as well as ‘Design, Arts and Craft’ will provide links to Sector Skills Councils which will give you a better understanding of the types of roles available and who to approach for work experience. Best of luck Connexions

Posted - 12:32, 23 Jan 2011

Hi, I am in year 10 and would like to do my work experience with animals. In the future I would like to be a Wildife Vet or an Animal Welfare Agent. Where do you think I should apply for my Trident? Thanks.

Posted - 11:27, 24 Jan 2011

Gaining work experience in the forensic science area can be difficult, regardless of your age. There are lots of lab based industries in Essex where you can gain experience. Try visiting Yell.com to find address of local firms and send them a letter introducing yourself and what you are looking for together with a copy of your CV. You could also try universities that offer science subjects, use the higher education website www.ucas.com to find universities that offer this. See your Connexions PA in school or at one of our centres for more support. Details of our centres can be found from the left hand navigation under ‘Connexions Centres’. Good luck Connexions PA

Posted - 05:24, 30 Jan 2011

Posted - 11:48, 31 Jan 2011

Hi your school will have a list of local employers in a range of different sectors where you can undertake work experience. Check what is available, if there is nothing suitable your school can advice you on the procedure for sourcing your own placement. You could try local animal sanctuaries, farms, zoos, vets, kennels, catteries, pet shops, stables and grooming parlours. Visit http://www.yell.com/ to find local companies close to you. Connexions

Posted - 04:35, 20 Feb 2011

Can i work with Basildon police?

Posted - 10:37, 21 Feb 2011

Hi, thanks for getting in touch. Speak to your school to see if they have organised placements with the police service before. They will be better placed to advise you if it is worth applying. Although cancelled this year, Essex Police run a cadet scheme. You will need to be in year 11 and achieve three A to C grade GCSE qualifications (one in English and one in Maths). Recruitment campaigns are held every March/April so this may be something to consider in the future. Visit www.essex.police.uk/recruitment/cadets.aspx for more information. Connexions

Posted - 11:21, 25 Feb 2011

Hi, we live in Loughton, Essex and have been advised by my sons school to try and arrange our own work experience. His two main subjects are DT and Full Course PE. But he is willing to do anything for work experience. I have contact over 15 different potential placements, ranging from garden centres, football clubs, Forest Rangers and Homebase. None of whom are willing or able to offer work experience. Just how are we supposed to get this thing sorted?

Posted - 01:39, 25 Feb 2011

Can you do work experience at a police station or in a hospital if so what sort of things can you do?

Posted - 02:33, 01 Mar 2011

Hi thanks for getting in touch. Work experience with the police can vary depending on the department. Some police departments have police explorer programs, offer internship programs, offer ride-along programs, and/or use volunteers. Call the police station you are interested in working for, and ask them. There are many things to consider when thinking about becoming a law enforcement officer. Check out http://www.peaceofficerjobs.com for excellent information and advice about becoming a law enforcement officer. Most work experience roles in the Police force would be in Admin, however due to confidentiality issues a lot of police Forces are refusing to take young people. I’d suggest you contact the HR department of the Police Station you would like to undertake work experience. Hospital work experience placements are usually in clerical departments due to health and safety and rules and regulations. I would suggest you write to your local hospital trust and explain that you are interested in doing work experience in one of their hospitals; it would be a good idea to write to a few hospitals as some may not be as strict as others. Some hospitals offer group visits to year 10 groups-age 14-15 and clerical placements for year 11's. Placements in clinical areas are usually for students age 17-18 and doing A levels or Degree courses. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 01:57, 02 Mar 2011

Hi thanks for your comment. Sorry to read that your efforts so far have been unsuccessful. Schools have different systems for supporting students’ work experience placements which are most usually that a) they contract with an organisation to set up placements on their behalf or b) they have a database of contacts within the school and organise it themselves. In either case it is possible to set up a private placement if the necessary paperwork and checks are carried out. You will need to discuss this further with your son’s school to establish exactly what they can do to help. If you and your son decide to continue sourcing your own placement you may need to make contact with a wider range of organisations in the hope that one will be able to offer something. Your school will be able to advise you on the procedure relating to paperwork/health and safety. Best of luck Connexions

Posted - 10:13, 07 Mar 2011

hi am in year 10 but am looking for a work experience either in the law firm or with forensic any help please

Posted - 10:34, 07 Mar 2011

hi am in year 10 looking for a work experince in the area of law of forensic i need lots help as i cant find any ..

Posted - 10:38, 08 Mar 2011

Firstly you will need to make sure you have a good CV that reflects your passion, enthusiasm & skills, together with a speculative letter that introduces you to prospective bosses & states what you can offer them and what you’re looking for. Both of these documents are your selling points. A Connexions PA can support you with these, as well as using this website, to find out more information on them. I would encourage you to use yell.com to find addresses of employers you would like to work for and post your CV & speculative letter. Gaining work experience in the forensic science area can be difficult no matter someone’s age. You could also try Universities that offer science & law subjects, use the higher education website www.ucas.com to find out the Universities that offer this. See your Connexions PA in School or at one of our centres for more support with this too!! Good Luck! Connexions.

Posted - 09:55, 29 Mar 2011

hi am a year 10 student looking for work experience in performing arts /dance etc, but am having real problems because everything is closed at the end of aug beginning of sept when my work expereince starts.have you any suggestions.thanks

Posted - 11:52, 29 Mar 2011

Hi, it is great to hear you are starting to focus on a career. Work experience is all about finding out what a day in the workplace involves. It gives you a chance to find out what you enjoy and what you do not enjoy. It’s great that you have already started looking however you need to continue. Contact local dance studios and theatres or be more adventurous and try some theatres in London – providing you can get there. Visit www.essexyounglife.co.uk and search for local dance groups and theatres as this will help you find local opportunities. Ask your school if they have any contacts they can help you with. It would also be a good idea to have a back up plan, consider a second career and maybe try a work experience placement in that area. Whatever you do, good luck with your career. Connexions.

Posted - 06:02, 29 Mar 2011

hi im a year 10 student and im looking for work experience in acting/tv ect, i love to act and im wondering if you could help me find work experience it starts on the 3rd of october untill the 7th please get back to me as soon as possible thanks

Posted - 10:19, 31 Mar 2011

Hi thanks for getting in touch. We would suggest you look for opportunities at theatres or drama/dance groups. Speak to your school about the procedure for sourcing your own placement. You can write to local organisations explaining you’re looking for work experience and attach your CV. You can register to MyConnexions (click on the Blue tab above the left hand navigation to access this facility) to assist you to develop a CV and a covering letter. Alternatively you can speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser in your school or local Connexions Centre/One Stop Shop. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 04:14, 22 Apr 2011

Hi, I'm a fourteen year old girl (Year 9) due to take part in two weeks work experience June/July 2012. I'm interested in all aspects of media particularly sport, music and travel. I play a lot of sport and have been fortunate to have visited many foreign countries including Mexico and China. I live in Northamptonshire and would like to know what opportunities are available. Thank You

Posted - 05:36, 25 Apr 2011

hi . im in 3rd year and my work experiance is coming up soon, im really into the weather, and travelling, what work experience do you surgest please ??

Posted - 08:53, 27 Apr 2011

I thank you for your comments about your forthcoming work experience. As you live in Northamptonshire I suggest that you contact the local Connexions centres to get more advice about what is available locally. Contact points are as follows:- Freephone 0800 7313219 email info@4you2.org.uk website www4you2org.uk Thank you

Posted - 11:36, 28 Apr 2011

Hi, I'm in Yr10 and I want to do work experience in a hospital. My friend has got a placement in the same hospital I want to work in (The Royal Free, West Hampstead), is there any way I could use my friend's name as a reference and get a placement?

Posted - 03:49, 03 May 2011

Hi thanks for making contact. It is best to speak an adviser based in your local Connexions service which we believe to be Connexions Central London and their contact details are available from http://www.centrallondonconnexions.org.uk. It is never a good idea to put a friend down as a referee, even though he currently has a placement at the hospital. It would be better to ask a tutor, and if possible someone like a former employer (if you have had any part-time work), a community group leader (if your part of any groups or associations) and voluntary group leaders (should you have done any voluntary work). There is no reason your friend can’t put in a good word for you, but we’d only advise your friend to do so should an appropriate opportunity arises. Focus on selling your skills and abilities in your CV and covering letter and hopefully you will be successful in obtaining a placement. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 12:12, 09 May 2011

Hi thanks for getting in touch. Some good places for work experience could include, travel agents, holiday centres, air or cruise lines and rail or bus stations. Visit UKSP http://www.uksp.co.uk for information on different roles and career paths in hospitality, leisure and tourism. This site will help give you ideas on where to undertake work experience. There is also the Sector Skills Council http://www.people1st.co.uk where you can find out skills and qualifications. For jobs in meteorology (the climate and weather of a region) check out Semta http://www.semta.org.uk the Sector Skills Council for science and engineering. Connexions.

Posted - 02:25, 17 May 2011

Hi. I am studying online about Galileo CRS and im currently finding training at a travel agency in birmingham. Can i pls get some help in finding place for training?

Posted - 09:49, 18 May 2011

Hi thanks for contacting us. It is really best that you speak to a personal adviser in your local area, if that is Birmingham, so that they can ascertain your education, age, skills etc. They can go through your long term plans and advise on the best way forward and of any local training providers. If you are from the Birmingham area you may find the website for the Connexions service in Birmingham useful http://www.connexions-bs.co.uk. Best of luck Connexions

Posted - 01:09, 08 Jun 2011

Hi, I am in year 10 and am looking for placement in Derby. I would prefer something medical related. My work experience teacher gave us a website but it is not very helpful in what I want to do. Would you know any placements in Derby with something medical related or how to find one? Thank you.

Posted - 12:19, 09 Jun 2011

Hi, this website focuses on the local concerns for Essex and you would have to contact the Connexions service for Derby for a localised response. It sounds like you need to spend some time researching the different job roles in order to understand which organisations you should approach for your placement. Our careers library section on science and healthcare may help. Here you will find links to the Sector Skills Councils which will give information on the courses and skills you will need for a future career. You can access the careers library from the tab towards the top right of our website’s homepage. Connexions

Posted - 12:34, 22 Jun 2011

Hi, I'm in Year 9 and we have been told today that we should start looking for placements for work experience. I have no idea what I want to do though. Do you have any ideas? Help would be appreciated. Thanks :)

Posted - 10:50, 26 Jun 2011

where can i find counselling or psychology related work experience in southend on sea?

Posted - 10:27, 27 Jun 2011

Hi it is not uncommon for you to have no idea what you want to do. We would suggest you visit http://www.fasttomato.com/ and sign up for a free guest pass or ask your school if they have a login they could provide you. This interactive careers tool asks you a series of questions in order to tailor jobs to your individual interests, learning and social styles. This will give you an insight and information to guide you to further education and career pathways. Once you have identified the area you are aspiring to get into you can visit our careers library (Link available from the top right of our homepage). Here you will find links to Sector Skills Councils and Professional Institutes who provide information about how to get intro this industry and the relevant work experience required. Best of luck Connexions

Posted - 11:04, 27 Jun 2011

Hi thanks for getting in touch. It’s a good idea to speak to your school/FE college as they may already have a list of employers in that industry. It may be wise to speak directly with the Connexions Service for Southend http://www.southend-connexions.co.uk/ as they will be able to give you a more localised picture. You should also visit websites of the British Psychological Society www.bps.org.uk and the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy www.bacp.co.uk for information the skills and qualifications needed to pursue a career in this path. This will help you ascertain the skills you need and therefore you will be able to tailor your work experience appropriately. Connexions

Posted - 04:04, 01 Jul 2011

Hi, I'm an 18 year old from Ipswich and was looking to do work experience at a train station ticket office for a couple of weeks during the summer holidays (in July or September). I have a contact at Brentwood ticket office who says I need to sort out any work experience through you. So my question is, is this possible and if so, how would I go about it?

Posted - 04:11, 01 Jul 2011

Hi, Connexions does not organise work experience. For the Brentwood area it is currently organised by a company called HTC (Hertfordshire Careers Service). Their contact details are 0845 3045200 info@hcs-essex.co.uk. You may need to contact the Connexions for Suffolk www.thesource.me.uk or your school/former school to see where/who runs work experience in your area. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 05:24, 02 Jul 2011

is it possible to do work experience in a newspaper .e.g. the daily mail...when we do work experience i'll be 15

Posted - 01:45, 04 Jul 2011

is there any work experience placments for 14 year olds in hove area is there any outdoors work ?

Posted - 09:38, 05 Jul 2011

Hi, usually your school will arrange work experience for you in year’s 10 or 11. You will need to speak to your schools careers coordinator as usually work experience is organised by the school through an external organisation. They usually have a list of local employers that are willing to offer work experience and this may well include an opportunity for work outdoors/within a newspaper. There is also likely to be a procedure for sourcing your own placement, should there be nothing suitable, but you should speak to your school in the first instance about how to go about this. Best of luck, Connexions.

Posted - 08:59, 20 Jul 2011

Hi. Im in year 10 and looking for work experience. I want to do work experience involving business & administration or finance or accountancy. is there any of those in Romford, Barking, Goodmayes, iIford, Gidea park or Hornchurch

Posted - 11:19, 21 Jul 2011

need a volunteer work for a weekend in the forensic science area

Posted - 02:56, 24 Jul 2011

Hi I'm in Y10 and looking for work experience related to the medicine field , can you help me?

Posted - 08:20, 24 Jul 2011

Hi. I am 17 and studying my A levels. I go to a boarding school in Ipswich (they don't do work experience) but live in Hampshire. How can I get on a work experience placement? I want to go to University next year to study Physiotherapy and they would like some work experience beforehand. Do you know of anywhere that takes people on in my area. I have contacted some but they have said no.

Posted - 12:51, 25 Jul 2011

Hello, I am currently in year 9 going into year 10 in September. We have been informed that we are to find and secure our own work experience placements for July 2012. I am very interested in journalism and the media and also childcare and counselling, however I can not find any placements, could you suggest any websites or anywhere that would offer placement? Thanks.

Posted - 04:53, 25 Jul 2011

Hi, try visiting http://www.forensic.gov.uk as these website provides in-depth information into the qualifications and skills you will need for a career in forensic science and will help you identify where you can gain the core skills for the role you are looking to do. Because of security implications it is unlikely you will find any placements at Forensic Science service providers. There are many roles within Forensic Science including: Scene of Crime Officers, Forensic Boiologists/Chemists/Toxicologists and Fingerprint Officers. The Skills for Justice Website www.skillsforjustice.com provides details of courses that may be beneficial for you to pursue in this field. It’s important to research the current labour market as competition for jobs within forensic science is fierce. You can also visit http://www.heacademy.ac.uk/forensic_careers for further information. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 03:20, 26 Jul 2011

Hi thanks for getting in touch. Try visiting http://www.medicalcareers.nhs.uk and http://www.ipem.org.uk for information about careers in medicine. Providing information on career planning and career options which will help you identify where best to undertake any work experience. Best of luck Connexions

Posted - 03:25, 26 Jul 2011

Hi thanks for getting in touch. We’d suggest you start with the Sector Skills Councils’ websites such as http://www.skillset.org/careers/work_experience/ and www.skillsforcareanddevelopment.org.uk. These sites will give you an idea of the range of roles in these sectors and advice on how to go about getting relevant experience. Best of luck Connexions.

Posted - 06:48, 03 Aug 2011

Hi I'm 14 and I love acting and want to get in to the acting career ; but ; I wanted To know if you can go abroad to a different country For work experience?

Posted - 05:35, 04 Aug 2011

Hi the best advice is to discuss it with your School Work Experience Co-ordinator as soon as possible.

Posted - 05:00, 10 Aug 2011

hi im 14 and im wondering where i can do work experience in romford ?

Posted - 02:12, 16 Aug 2011

hey, im about to go into year 11 and we are soon going to do work experience. my problem is though, that the work experience that school and home have in mind for me are not really what i was aiming for. I know you have to start at the bottom but i was wondering would you be able to give me a little advice on who to get in touch and where to start to become a magizine journalist?