At the age of 14-16, young people are already making life choices that will impact their careers for years to come. Yet too many state school students without parental networks do not have access to valuable work experience opportunities at this crucial age, or those that need it the most may take work experience placements that only reinforce existing assumptions of what is available to them.

Even with the amazing internships, graduate schemes and similar on offer today, many employers recognise the need to reach students earlier to change the current landscape of diversity and access into their industry or profession. Work experience is most students’ first foray into the professional world, and helps shape their perceptions about their own abilities and options for their future.

Access to work experience was named as a top conclusion by All Party Parliamentary Group on Social Mobility for increasing access to the professions, as well citing the importance of “less London-centric” work experience options, calling on companies to increase regional outreach and to cover travel costs.

• Broadening horizons of students without networks or exposure to certain industries and professions to help give them direction and inspiration
• Demystifying industries and assumptions about what is available or how to get into them
• Encouraging diversity in the industry by inspiring a range of young people earlier in their decision making to consider more industries/disciplines
• Offering invaluable preparation by giving students early exposure to workplace etiquette and expectations such as punctuality and having a good attitude
• Increasing understanding of practical pathways after school, such as apprenticeships and training programmes
• Improving overall prospects of young people by offering early exposure to the world of work, a range of professionals, key expectations and transferable skills