Work experience is a vital part of your journey through Sixth Form and a crucial stepping stone towards a successful future. At The Cottesloe School, we are committed to providing you with a high-quality careers programme that helps you explore your options, develop essential skills, and make informed decisions about your future.

Our work experience programme is designed to help you fulfil the requirements of the Gatsby Benchmarks, which are a framework for world-class careers guidance. We believe that by providing you with meaningful encounters with employers and experiences of the workplace, you will be better prepared for life after school, whether that's in further education, apprenticeships, or the world of work.

Why is Work Experience so Important?

Undertaking a work experience placement during your Sixth Form years offers a multitude of benefits that will significantly enhance your personal and professional development:

• Informed Career Choices: Gain invaluable insight into a career you are considering. This practical experience can either solidify your interest or help you to explore alternative pathways.
• Skill Development: Develop and refine key transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These are skills that universities and employers look for in candidates.
• Boost Your UCAS Application: A well-documented work experience placement, especially one connected to your chosen field of study, can make your personal statement stand out from the crowd. You can reflect on the skills you gained and how the experience has shaped your aspirations.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals in your chosen field. These connections can be invaluable for future advice, mentorship, or even job opportunities.
• Personal Growth: Boost your confidence and independence as you navigate a professional environment and take on new responsibilities.

Finding Your Placement

While we provide a range of support and resources, it is your responsibility to secure your work experience placement. We strongly encourage you to be proactive and use your networks to find a placement that aligns with your interests and career goals. Remember, the most effective way to find a placement is often through your personal and family connections.

Resources and Support:

• Unifrog: Our dedicated online platform is a one-stop shop for careers-related information and a tool for managing your work experience placement. You will use Unifrog to record your placement details, including employer information and feedback.
• Careers Advisor: Our dedicated careers advisor is available to provide guidance and support throughout your work experience journey.
• Work Experience Diary: You will be provided with a work experience diary to complete during your placement. This is a valuable tool for reflecting on your experiences and the skills you have developed, which you can then refer to in your personal statement or future job applications.
• Online Resources: We will provide you with a list of reputable websites and resources that offer work experience opportunities, including virtual placements.

Work experience is an essential part of your journey at The Cottesloe School Sixth Form. By embracing this opportunity, you will be taking a proactive step towards a successful and fulfilling future. We look forward to supporting you every step of the way.