Work Experience
Your Future, Guaranteed: Our Commitment to Work Readiness
We are committed to championing modern work experience that works for all young people: equitable, meaningful, and fit for the future.
Together, #LetsMakeItWork #IPledgeLMiW
Work experience is not just a box-ticking exercise; it is the bridge between education and a successful, fulfilling life. At The Cottesloe School, we recognise that academic success is only half the picture. To thrive in a rapidly changing global economy, students need practical experience, resilience, and adaptability.
We are proud to introduce our Work Experience Guarantee. We pledge that every student—regardless of background, ability, or pathway—will leave our school "Work Ready." By blending curriculum learning with meaningful employer encounters, we ensure you have the skills to transition smoothly from the classroom to the career of your dreams.
The Work Experience Guarantee
In partnership with the Careers and Enterprise Company standards and the Gatsby Benchmarks, our guarantee ensures that all students will:
- Be Work Ready: Gain a comprehensive understanding of workplace culture, expectations, and professional standards.
- Have Equal Access: We are committed to equity and inclusion. We provide tailored support, adaptive placements, and removed barriers to ensure students with SEND and those from all backgrounds have access to high-quality opportunities.
- Build a Portfolio: Accumulate verified hours of experience, employer references, and a skill set that makes you stand out to colleges, universities, and recruiters.
Why Work Experience Matters
- Discover Your Passion: Explore diverse industries to identify your true interests and strengths before making long-term commitments.
- Develop Transferable Skills: Master the essential "soft skills" employers crave, including teamwork, complex problem-solving, and effective communication.
- Build Confidence & Resilience: Boost self-esteem by navigating real-world challenges and taking ownership of responsibilities outside the classroom.
- Professional Networking: Begin building your contact list now by connecting with industry experts who can offer mentorship and guidance.
- Informed Decision-Making: Use practical insights to make evidence-based choices about your GCSEs, A-Levels, and post-16 pathways.
Your Roadmap: Delivery by Key Stage
Our comprehensive programme uses a progressive model, ensuring that employer encounters increase in depth and complexity as students mature.
Years 8 and 9: Exploration
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Work Exploration Day (July): An introduction to the world of work. Students engage in taster sessions and site visits to understand different sectors and the relevance of their curriculum to future jobs.
Year 10: Immersion
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The 8-Day Placement (July): A distinct feature of The Cottesloe School. Students undertake 8 full days of work experience. This extended placement allows for a genuine immersion in workplace culture, moving beyond observation to active participation.
Years 12 and 13: Specialisation
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Bespoke Placements: Sixth Form students complete targeted work experience aligned directly with their study programme and career ambitions. These are flexible "bespoke days" designed to support university applications and higher-degree apprenticeships without disrupting exam preparation.
Beyond the Placement: A Culture of Careers
We deliver our guarantee through a holistic approach that surrounds the student with opportunity.
1. Engaging Assemblies & Alumni Networks Throughout the academic year, we host engaging assemblies featuring external employers and successful alumni. These sessions provide real-life insights into current labour market trends. Students hear firsthand about various career journeys, the skills valued in the modern workplace, and the importance of professional behaviour.
2. Interactive Workshops (Gatsby Benchmark 5) We run focused, small-group workshops with guest speakers from a variety of sectors. These interactive sessions allow students to participate in simulations, ask candid questions, and practice key skills like networking and interview techniques. This ensures every student has meaningful encounters with employees, directly addressing the Gatsby Benchmarks.
3. Virtual Work Experience & Digital Skills Recognising the shift toward hybrid working models, we embrace high-quality virtual work experience. This modern approach allows students to:
- Explore Global Companies: Access placements with prestigious organisations geographically out of reach.
- Work on Real Projects: Participate in live briefs and tasks that mirror professional deliverables.
- Develop Digital Fluency: Enhance proficiency with remote collaboration tools and professional software, essential for the modern digital economy.
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.
