• Find out about the Industry you want to work in

• Develop skills such as teamwork and communication

• Develop your confidence in the workplace

• Potentially gain a good reference from the employer

• Possibly gain employment or apprenticeship opportunities

• Develop your technical skills, increasing your competence and ability to progress into skilled employment

• Get a deeper knowledge of the running of a business

• Personal growth: developing self-reliance, stepping out of your comfort zone, building confidence and learning about yourself

• Identifying your strengths and preferences for future career options

• Grow your network in the industry helping you to identify future job role

We believe giving you an insight into the world of work through work experience will give you a better insight into the industry and role(s) you would be interested in.

As industry placements are more substantial then work experience you will gain greater benefits, including:

• If you have an existing part-time job, this could be used as your industry placement.

• We believe that involvement in an industry placement will make a significant difference to your future employment prospects. We aim to give you every opportunity to make sure that when you finish your course, you are best placed to succeed. Work experience will make you stand out against other applicants in the job market.

• We’ll support you in finding the right placement, though we encourage you to approach employers yourself. This helps you to develop skills in applying for work and employers often look favourably on students who use their initiative in finding a placement.

• You will have a designated contact at your campus who will keep in touch with you and visit you in the workplace to check in and support your progress.

• Plan your journey – plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before you need to.

• Find out about the dress code – what do you need to wear?

• Note down the name of the person you need to ask for when you get there.

• Do not use your mobile until you know the rules about mobile use at work.

• You may be asked to do tasks that you hadn’t expected. Use this as an opportunity to learn new skills.

• Ask questions if you are ever unsure. Employers want to help you!

• If there isn’t enough work; ask for more. Show you’re keen and willing.

• If you are briefed on a task, take careful notes

• Make sure you know when deadlines for work you are given are

• You are an ambassador of the college – be respectful and friendly.

• If you are late or cannot attend inform the Employer and College immediately.

• Record your activities each day in your log book

• Ask your employer to sign your timesheet and keep it safe ready to give in to the placement team

• Enjoy it!

• Thank the employer for having you.

• Ask them to complete your evaluation.

• Ask if you can use them as a reference.