From biomedical research in Cambridge to accordion-making in Italy, our Work Experience students certainly had variety!

Every Year 10 pupil at King's Ely Senior was on a work experience placement all last week - some in different departments around school, the majority at businesses across the region, and several at organisations overseas.

Dr Emily Fishpool, our recently-appointed Head of Careers and Futures, said: "Students went to an extraordinary array of organisations! From radio stations in London to punting in the rain in Cambridge, to attending court with a legal firm to singing at Christ’s College, Cambridge, taking apart computers, mapping land drainage, preparing food, and undertaking SWOT analysis - the week was full of variety and fun! 

"Staff went out to visit as many students as possible throughout the week, so often reporting back on how well our pupils had been received, and what a strong impression so many of them had made. I was asked more than once during visits "Can we keep them?", which goes to show how employable our students are already becoming. With so much in the news about youth unemployment and NEETs (Not in Education Employment or Training) it is so heartening to see how well our students engaged with their work experience.

"Students have commented on how much they have enjoyed getting out of the classroom and being able to show off their capabilities. One student told me they had one of the best days of their life whilst another reflected: "It has helped me recognise which jobs I could consider pursuing further, and which ones I do not want to continue. It has helped me with confidence, in-person communication, and self-reliance."

"This week, Tutors have been working with students to help them fully reflect on their experiences; being able to articulate, reflect with clarity, and build on their experiences are key skills that will help them better navigate their future career pathways.

"With Year 12s now planning their work experiences for the summer holidays, it is heartening to see how able our students are to thrive in such a range of work environments, and show that they have developed valuable skills for employment. I commend all the Year 10 students for having the courage to go into the week with excitement and commitment - the extent of positive feedback has been remarkable."

Thank you to all businesses, parents, staff, and friends of the school for supporting our Year 10 Work Experience Week!

If you would like to be involved in our work experience programme, please email Dr Fishpool: emilyfishpool@kingsely.org