Work experience placements are an important part of career education and preparation for life and work. A flexible approach is taken to arranging placements so that pupils can find opportunities that are meaningful to them, to meet the needs of schools and employers, and to align with the Work Placements Standard.

Work placements can take place between S4 and S6. Pupils who intend to leave school at the end of S4 will be given priority for placements during S4. Pupils staying on at school are more likely to receive placements in S5 or S6. However, where capacity allows and a suitable workplace is available, other requests may also be accommodated.

All school based work experience placements must be requested through the WorkIt database, with support from Pupil Support Teachers, who are responsible for work experience in schools. Around four weeks’ notice is required between submitting a request and beginning a placement to allow sufficient time for planning and organisation.

In Whalsay School all pupils receive WorkIt log-ins and have the opportunity to explore the platform and the placements available at the end of S3/start of S4. They will also complete the Health and Safety and Behaviour in the Workplace units to ensure they are prepared for any future work experience placements.

If you have any questions, please contact Eyvor Irvine, Pupil Support Teacher, at your school.