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Young people of all ages learn best by direct experiences. Activities which bridge the gap between education and employment open up possibilities, opportunities and challenges; they bring relevance to subject’s studies at school and help develop important skills such as communication, team building and problem solving. They can also help young people build confidence and self-esteem. Employers frequently underestimate the skills and expertise which they can share, as young people respond very positively to people from the business world.
These types of activities are called work-related learning (WRL) and are at the core of the work which Education Business Partnership Organisations carry out to develop the full potential of young people. They have been increasingly recognised by government as of great importance in documents such as Building on the Best, DCSF 2007. http://www.dfes.gov.uk/14-19/documents/14-19workrelatedlearning_web.pdf
Currently over 300,000 employers are engaged with EBPOs at local level on a wide range of work-related learning.
From September 2004 work-related learning has been statutory for all students at key stage 4 (14-16), but it is increasingly recognised that these type of experiences should also happen at an earlier age. The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Development Agency (QCDA) has developed a framework for WRL which covers 11-19 year olds. This document 'Career, work-related learning and enterprise 11-19' can be downloaded from: www.qcda.org.uk/qca_20339.aspx
Work-related learning activities include:
* Work Experience * Enterprise Activities * Visits from schools to business * Visits by business into schools * Professional development placements for teachers * Mock interviews and CV support * Business mentoring * Business challenges * Curriculum support such as materials for case studies * Reading and numeracy volunteering
These activities can take place on an employer’s premises or at school or college. The Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency (QCDA) describes this as learning through work, about work or for work.
Further details of the specific activities listed above are contained on this website.
All curriculum subjects are enhanced by work-related learning, but for the Diplomas being introduced from 2008 onwards, it is a critical part of their design. There must be a period of no less than 10 days work experience in each Diploma and at each level, as well as a range of other opportunities to engage with employers.
All partnerships work best when both parties gain from the experience. By working with schools and colleges through EBPOs businesses can:
* Be an important part of the community where they work * Enjoy engaging with fresh young minds * Raise the knowledge, understanding and profile of their industry * Motivate their own employees and help their personal development * Contribute to the development of the future work force.
EBPOs will help local companies find the best fit and discuss what the range of local initiatives involves. There is an extensive network of local Education Business Partnerships (EBPs) across England and other EBPOs which operate on a national or regional level. Please see the directory for details or contact the IEBE office for help.
You may also wish to look at the case studies on this site which describe some of the range, flavour and excitement involved these activities. |
