The placements, undertaken during study leave, were arranged by the young people themselves through Workit and provided opportunities to experience a variety of working environments, including early years education, automotive services and the creative sector. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world employment while giving pupils the chance to test their career aspirations in a practical setting.

Experiencing the Workplace First-Hand

As part of the placements, pupils worked with a range of local employers, including:

• Motor Sales Kirkcaldy
• Linktown Nurture Nursery
• Little Beehive Nursery
• Envy Tattoo Studio

The experience allowed learners to gain an authentic understanding of day-to-day working life and explore whether their chosen career path was right for them.

Throughout the placement period, Viewforth High School’s DYW Coordinator visited employers and pupils to gather feedback and better understand the impact work experience was having on participants. These visits also helped strengthen relationships with local employers and create valuable insight for future pupils considering similar placements.

Learning Through Real Experiences

Each placement offered a unique experience tailored to the industry and role.

Pupils working within nursery settings participated in daily routines, supported staff and gained valuable insight into early years education and childcare careers. Those placed within creative businesses explored customer interactions and behind-the-scenes operations, while learners at Motor Sales Kirkcaldy experienced a hands-on automotive environment.

Activities undertaken by pupils included:

• Assisting with reception and customer-facing duties.
• Supporting nursery activities and learning routines.
• Observing workplace operations and procedures.
• Learning about vehicle preparation and maintenance.
• Exploring practical tasks within real business environments.

By working alongside experienced professionals, pupils gained a realistic understanding of workplace expectations, responsibilities and career opportunities.

Employer Engagement That Makes a Difference

The participating employers have a strong track record of supporting young people through Workit and wider DYW initiatives. Many view work experience as an important opportunity to inspire future talent and give young people a positive introduction to the workplace.

Several employers highlighted the value of providing opportunities for the next generation, recognising the role that work experience can play in helping young people develop confidence and make informed career choices.

One member of staff at Motor Sales Kirkcaldy reflected on their own experience as a young person and the positive impact work placements can have on future opportunities. The placements also provided businesses with an opportunity to identify and engage with potential future apprentices and employees.

What Young People Said

Feedback from pupils was overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting that the placements helped confirm their career interests while building confidence and independence.

One pupil commented:

“Despite the busy, loud and compact workshop, the staff are so patient and showed me how to do it with no judgement at all. My favourite part was the environment.”

Another reflected on the value of experiencing a workplace before making future career decisions:

“This helps me see what it is truly like and if this career path is really for me.”

The placements encouraged young people to step outside their comfort zones, ask questions and engage with professionals in a real-world environment.

Employer Feedback

Employers also praised the commitment and enthusiasm shown by participating pupils.

One employer commented:

“Pupil A had an incredible work ethic.”

Another highlighted the broader impact of supporting young people through work experience:

“It’s great to be part of someone’s life story.”

The positive feedback demonstrates the mutual benefits of work experience, helping both young people and employers build valuable connections and understand each other’s needs.

Impact and Outcomes

The work experience placements provided meaningful opportunities for young people to develop skills, confidence and career awareness.

Key outcomes included:

• Increased confidence and independence.
• Greater understanding of workplace expectations.
• Improved communication and interpersonal skills.
• Enhanced awareness of career pathways.
• Opportunities to explore potential future occupations.
• Stronger links between education and local employers.
• Better-informed decisions about future education, training and employment options.

The experience highlighted the importance of meaningful workplace experiences in helping young people understand the world of work. By giving pupils the opportunity to experience real workplaces, engage with employers and explore areas of interest, the placements supported informed career choices and helped develop skills that will benefit them throughout their future journeys.