Work Experience

Here are some links to organisations who may be able to help you set up work experience placements.

At school or college

If you are still at school or college, speak to your careers adviser/co-ordinator. They may have links with local companies and organisations that will be able to offer you work experience.

If they don't, they may be able to set up new links with a company - but this takes time, so make sure you mention it early on when you're planning your placement.

You may also find the following information useful:

For general information about work experience in years 10 and 11 click here.

If you are at school studying A levels then The Nuffield Foundation runs a summer Bursary scheme to provide funded work placements. These are known as science bursaries but cover engineering topics too. See: www.nuffieldfoundation.org/go/grants/nsbsc/page_394.html

If you are looking for a longer placement to occupy your gap year between school and university, the Engineering Development Trust runs the ‘Year in Industry’ scheme. See: www.yini.org.uk 

For regular emails about relevant activities such as work placements, mentoring schemes, podcasts and summer schools in your area www.accessprofessions.com

At university

Visit the National Council for Work Experience site to find out more about the various organisations that may be able to provide students with meaningful work experience in a science, engineering and technology setting. See: www.work-experience.org

Graduate Talent Pool is a new service that matches graduates with internship opportunities. On this site you can search and apply for internship vacancies posted by employers. See: http://graduatetalentpool.direct.gov.uk

Contacting companies directly

You may find that contacting local companies directly is the best way to find work experience. You can find out more information about the engineering comapnies (including email addresses and telephone numbers) in your area at www.uk-engineering.net and also on www.applegate.co.uk

Larger companies that employ engineers may advertise work experience vacancies on their websites; or via organisations such as Hobsons and Target Jobs

For employers and teachers/careers coordinators

Institute of Education Business Excellence (IEBE) provide support for both employers and schools/colleges setting up 'Work Related Learning' placements. Find out more.

Education and Employers Taskforce vision is to ensure that every school and college has an effective partnership with employers. Find out more.

Guide to industrial placements for employers: an Engineering Subject Centre/engCETL guide to industrial placements for employers. A booklet for academics is also available. Find out more.