Sixth Form Work Experience
Work Experience
Preparation for university and employment is an integral part of the Sixth Form programme at The Misbourne. Employability or work-readiness is becoming more and more important to universities and employers. While qualifications remain essential, with very few exceptions, they are no longer the only consideration. By gaining work experience in relevant sectors our students can gain a real advantage when applying for university or work. While on work experience students will be able to talk with and observe skilled and qualified people who can give them a better idea of what their job involves. It is an opportunity to network and find contacts.
We encourage all our Year 12 and 13 students to secure and participate in meaningful work experience at an agreed appropriate time, this may be in the school holidays. Students are released from the timetable for a week after their exams (typically in March) to complete their work experience. Work experience is an ongoing process in the journey towards a career and should not be viewed as just one week - students should be encouraged to take up as many opportunities as possible.
All students are expected to find their own work placements. Taking personal responsibility for finding the placement and researching their further education and career path is an important part of the process. While we will provide support and inspiration in school, we expect students to actively find the placement and apply for it themselves - and they will learn a great deal from doing so.
Students need to let the school know when they have organised work experience so that their records can be updated and the information used to help support their reference. We have subscribed to the Unifrog platform to manage the administration of the process - families, employers, students and the school will complete their relevant paperwork on the system.
Documentation
Student workbook to be completed by students whilst they are preparing to go on the work placement and whilst they are there to record and consolidate learning. There is also a presentation task detailed at the end of the booklet for students to complete when they return to school.
Families letter explaining the process
Employer information booklet explaining the process
Work Experience - potential sources
Using your own family / friends network is often the best route but there are other useful sources:
Webinar recording : How To Find a Great Work Experience Placement!
Bucks Skills Hub - work experience page
LinkedIn - The Misbourne alumni
School Careers & Higher Education Fair
The Misbourne Careers Leader / Form tutors / Performance Directors
Industry specific bodies (scroll down to 'Specific Industry Career Advice')
Virtual Work Experience
It can be difficult to obtain work experience within a workplace. We therefore encourage students to enhance their CV or personal statements by completing relevant virtual work experience. Click here to find sources of potential virtual work experience and online courses.