Project Description
Lochgelly High School recently held its most successful work experience week, involving over 60 students. The goal of the program was to provide students with real-world experience and help them develop essential skills such as customer service, teamwork, and professionalism. The students were placed in a variety of industries, ranging from hospitality and engineering to education, where they gained hands-on experience in different working environments. This event was part of the school’s ongoing effort to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need for their future careers.
Sectors and Activities:
- Hospitality: Students served food, made cakes and traybakes, and learned how to operate tills, gaining valuable customer service experience.
- Engineering: Students operated basic machinery, learned about health and safety protocols, and solved real-world problems, giving them a taste of working in an industrial setting.
- Education: Students worked in primary schools and nurseries, helping to create learning activities and assisting teachers. They supported young children with literacy and numeracy, contributing to a safe and stimulating learning environment.
The week-long initiative was designed to not only give students practical experience but also build partnerships between the school and local businesses, offering mutual benefits for both parties.
Outcomes
The program delivered several key outcomes:
- Increased learner confidence: Students returned from their placements more assured and ready to tackle future challenges.
- Greater clarity on career paths: Students reported being more sure about their future career choices after experiencing work in their chosen sectors.
- A better understanding of the skills needed for different professions: Students gained awareness of the qualifications, work habits, and personal attributes necessary for success in their fields of interest.
- Stronger community ties: By engaging with local businesses, the school created lasting partnerships that will benefit future students and foster stronger community relationships.
Feedback from Employers
Several businesses involved provided positive feedback on the students’ enthusiasm and engagement during the work experience week:
- NHS Representative: “She’s been great, really engaged, asking questions and getting involved.”
- Muir Construction: “Just wanted to drop you an email to note how impressed we are by Louis so far. He is very keen to learn and seems to be enjoying himself.”
These responses reflect the program’s success in preparing students for real-world challenges and encouraging them to engage fully in their placements.
Value to Businesses and the Community
Employers such as Shell, Muir Construction, and Loch Leven Lodges found value in partnering with Lochgelly High School. These placements allowed them to connect with the next generation of workers, contribute to the local community, and potentially identify future talent for their industries. It also gave businesses the opportunity to make a direct, positive impact on students’ career readiness while strengthening their corporate social responsibility profiles.
Conclusion
Lochgelly High School’s work experience week was a resounding success, offering students real-world insights into various industries while helping them build essential skills for their future careers. The partnerships established with local businesses not only provided valuable opportunities for students but also laid the foundation for ongoing collaborations between the school and the local business community.