We’re working in partnership with the Careers & Enterprise Company, the national body for careers education, to test a new framework of work experience for every young person. Instead of the traditional two-week block, young people will access high-quality and multiple experiences totalling 10 days throughout secondary education.  

Evidence suggests that starting earlier and giving young people more touchpoints with employers secures better employment outcomes. The new approach also makes it easier for all types of employers to get involved – including SMEs.

The pilot is one of many being rolled out across secondary academies in the Trust, including in Manchester, Liverpool, West Midlands and more. Each is testing a different part of the new approach, before national roll-out. 

The government has committed to ensuring that all students are provided with at
least two weeks’ worth of work experience over the course of their secondary education.

The goal is to ensure work experience builds up over time, and focuses on key workplace skills and emerging sectors, such as life sciences, advanced manufacturing and digital. 

Chris Tomlinson, CEO of Co-op Academies Trust, said: “We’re proud to be the first multi-academy trust to pilot this bold new approach to work experience alongside the Careers & Enterprise Company.

“As a Trust, we aim to provide all students with meaningful and positive experiences.
This pilot will allow every student the chance to develop real-world skills, discover
their strengths and broaden their horizons. It’s a crucial step in helping our students
take confident strides toward their futures.”

John Yarham, Interim CEO of The Careers & Enterprise Company said: “We’re delighted to be working with Co-op Academies Trust as the first multi- academy trust to join our modern work experience pilot.

“This new approach gives young people aged 11 to 16 access to multiple, varied experiences - totalling ten days- rather than a single two-week block in the summer term. Our aim is simple: to ensure every young person has the opportunity to build the skills, confidence and insight they need to thrive in the future.”