Your Pathway to a Fulfilling Career

Work experience is more than just a requirement; it's a crucial stepping stone towards a successful and fulfilling future. At The Cottesloe School, we believe that a rounded education involves practical experience alongside academic learning. By gaining firsthand exposure to the world of work, you'll develop essential skills, explore potential career paths, and discover what truly motivates you.

By taking advantage of our work experience program, you'll be well-prepared to transition into the workforce and build a successful and fulfilling career.

Why Work Experience Matters

• Discover Your Passion: Explore various industries and roles to identify your interests and strengths.
• Build Essential Skills: Develop practical skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and time management.
• Gain Confidence: Boost your confidence and self-esteem as you take on new challenges and responsibilities.
• Network with Professionals: Connect with industry experts who can offer guidance and mentorship.
• Make Informed Career Choices: Use your experiences to make informed decisions about your future studies and career paths.

Our Delivery

Our comprehensive program is delivered through a blend of school-wide initiatives and targeted sessions. For more detail please select the relevant Key Stage for your child.

• In-Person Work Experience Opportunities: We offer a variety of work experience opportunities, including placements in local businesses, community organisations, and professional settings. 
  • Years 8 and 9 - We have Work Exploration Day in July.
  • Year 10 - Students are given 8 full days of work experience in July.
  • Years 12 and 13 - Students are offered bespoke days to complete Work Experience in-line with their study and exam programme. 
• Assemblies: Throughout the year, we host engaging assemblies featuring external employers and alumni. These sessions provide students with real-life insights into different industries and job roles. They will get to hear firsthand about various career journeys, the skills that are valued in the workplace, and the importance of professional behaviour.
• Interactive Workshops: We run smaller, more focused workshops with guest speakers from a variety of sectors. These are interactive sessions where students can participate in activities, ask questions, and even practice key skills like networking and interview techniques. This ensures every student has a meaningful encounter with employers and employees, directly addressing the Gatsby Benchmarks. 
• Virtual Work Experience: In addition to traditional placements, we are embracing the opportunities offered by virtual work experience. This modern approach allows students to:
  • Explore Global Companies: Access placements with organisations that might be geographically out of reach.
  • Work on Real Projects: Participate in tasks and projects that mirror the day-to-day work of a professional.
  • Develop Digital Skills: Enhance their proficiency with online collaboration tools and professional software, which are increasingly important in the modern workplace.

We are committed to providing a range of work experience options to suit every student's interests and circumstances, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future of work.

Additional Resources 

• Career Advisor Support: Our dedicated Career Advisor, Mr Matcham, is available Tuesday to Thursday to provide guidance, advice, and support throughout your work experience journey.
• Online Resources: Explore online resources and tools to learn more about different career paths and industries.