Modern Work Experience - Cumbria Careers Hub

Traditionally, work experience has often meant one placement, with one employer usually for a week in Year 10 or 12.  That model has worked well for some young people, but the quality of the experience and access to opportunities can vary considerably.

Preparing Young People for the Future Through Meaningful Workplace Experiences

Modern Work Experience goes beyond the traditional one or two-week placement. It provides young people with a series of progressive, meaningful encounters with workplaces that help them develop skills, explore careers, build confidence and make informed decisions about their future.

What is Modern Work Experience?

Modern Work Experience provides young people with multiple opportunities to engage with employers and workplaces throughout their education journey rather than relying solely on a single placement. Experiences may include supported workplace visits, industry projects, employer challenges, virtual workplace experiences, team enterprise activities, traditional work experience placements and supported encounters with local employers. This progressive approach helps young people understand different career pathways while developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours employers value.

What Makes an Experience Meaningful?

A meaningful encounter should:

• Have a clear purpose
• Include defined learning outcomes
• Offer genuine two-way interaction with employees
• Introduce young people to a range of job roles
• Include workplace tasks or challenges
• Provide employer feedback
• Allow time for reflection and learning