Talbot Heath School has welcomed last week’s renewed focus on work experience for young people, following Prime Minister Mayor Andy Burnham’s announcement highlighting the importance of ensuring every young person has access to meaningful workplace opportunities.
At Talbot Heath, this commitment is already firmly embedded within the Sixth Form experience. Every student undertakes a compulsory work experience programme, spending one afternoon each week with a local employer from October through to Easter. The extended format allows students to become valued members of a team, gain a genuine understanding of a profession and develop the confidence, skills and experience that employers and universities increasingly value.
The school is now looking to strengthen its network of employer partners and is inviting more organisations in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch area to get involved.
Ross Cameron, Head of Talbot Heath School, said:
“Work experience should be more than a one-week snapshot. By spending a regular afternoon each week with an employer over several months, our students have the opportunity to build relationships, contribute meaningfully and gain a much deeper understanding of the workplace.”
“Our aim is to ensure every Sixth Form student leaves Talbot Heath not only with excellent academic qualifications but also with the confidence, professional skills and real-world experience to thrive in higher education and beyond. We are incredibly grateful to the businesses that already support us and would love to hear from more organisations that are passionate about investing in the next generation.”
Talbot Heath is keen to partner with businesses and organisations from a wide range of sectors. Placements in any profession are welcomed, helping to reflect the diverse ambitions of the school’s students.
Hosting a student for one afternoon each week offers businesses the opportunity to share their expertise, support young people’s career aspirations and strengthen connections with the local community. Many employers find that students quickly become valued members of the team while bringing fresh ideas, enthusiasm and curiosity to the workplace.
The programme forms part of Talbot Heath’s wider commitment to careers education, ensuring students can make informed decisions about their futures through meaningful encounters with employers and professionals.
Businesses based in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch area that would be interested in hosting a Sixth Form student between October and Easter are encouraged to contact Mrs Hawes via the office to find out more about becoming a work experience partner. office@talbotheath.org
