Research finds work experience crucial for students

Work experience is becoming crucial for students in their later years at school, according to research compiled by the Education and Employers Taskforce.

This was undertaken in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), as well as the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES). The organisations found that work experience can really help students in their transition from a learning to a working environment.

In fact, Huffingtonpost.co.uk revealed that some 68 per cent of teachers questioned during the research stage said that they find pupils to be more motivated upon completion of a work experience placement. Two-thirds of pupils surveyed confirmed that undertaking this experience helped them to make decisions about their careers.

However ensuring these positive results continue can only be achieved from ongoing collaboration between the workplace and the educational system, according to the organisations behind the research. This could mean added support from learning institutions – pushing students in the right direction for their dream broadcast job or teaching role – in addition to employers offering up the placements required.

James Wates, the UKCES commissioner, agreed. Speaking to Peoplemanagement.co.uk, he said: “There are few more pressing issues around employability than the need to close the chasm between school and the world of work.

“If the UK is to stay competitive, then the talent currently in our classrooms needs to make the transition to the workplace,” Wates added.

by Deborah Bates on April 23, 2012

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