Work experience

Work experience can take place from Year 10 upwards. Work experience is referred to as block or extended.

Block is when the student goes to work for a two or three week block of time, for example, the Trident placements. Students following a vocational course at Highlands College often have a block of work experience as part of their curriculum.

Extended is for one or two days a week for an extended period of time, for example, a term or academic year. This type is used within the 11-16 schools, sixth form schools and Highlands College for some of their students.

The Trident placements are organized centrally by the Department, which is affiliated to the Trident Trust, a national educational charity that has been working with business and education for nearly 30 years.

The Trident section follows the policies and procedures of the Trust (www.thetridenttrust.org.uk) and gives the opportunity of a three week placement to all Key Stage 4 students. This year this equates to just over 1000 placements – a feat that could not be achieved without the support of local businesses.