Work experience programmes tailored to the individual
Year 11 pupils are given the opportunity to take part in our well-established work experience programme. Coxlease School takes great care to tailor work placements to pupils’ needs, fitting the industry, role and placement duration around the individual. For example, some pupils will carry out their work placement one day per week for half a term, whereas others will complete their work experience in a short week-long block. Whatever the placement looks like, we always support the pupil, but can flex this to the individual’s requirements. Some may require a staff member to work shadow them for the duration of the placement, whereas others may need help travelling to/from their workplace.
Local links for quality work placements
Coxlease School understands that in order to be successful, a work placement must fully engage and interest the young person. We listen to the pupil’s views and carefully match work experience opportunities with the individual’s interests to ensure the best possible chance of a valuable placement. As a school, we have strong links with a number of local organisations, including:
- Southampton City College and their business list
- A range of local businesses via the Solent Education Business Partnership
- An international building firm with whom we are looking to develop a joint enterprise
Together we are able to secure work opportunities in a broad range of industries that appeal to our pupils.
A wide range of placements
Coxlease School offers a wide range of work experience, with previous placements in a variety of industries, including:
- Catering
- Conservation (e.g. Pond Head Conservation Trust)
- Horticulture
- Hospitality
- Leisure (e.g. Golf clubs)
- Local riding stables
- Retail (e.g. a cycle shop)
- Stud farm
Case study: Ikram
Ikram was keen to work in the hospitality industry so the school organised a five day work experience placement for him at the 5* Chewton Glenn Hotel & Spa.
Ikram started his placement helping with basic duties in the kitchen but by the end of the week, staff were so impressed with him that he was working on the Pass, serving food. The hotel said it was the first time anyone on work experience had made such quick progress.