Schools that work closely with employers better prepare pupils for work

Schools that work closely with employers have committed leaders and staff, know their pupils’ career aspirations and offer work-related experiences.

Jassa Scott, Strategic Director, says,

Links with employers can give pupils access to real life work-related experiences. Although many schools hold an annual careers fair, arrange visits to workplaces and host careers speakers, only a minority now offer work experience.

Schools need to carefully consider how they embed careers and work-related experiences when they design their new curriculum so that pupils have a wide range of real experiences in partnership with employers. 

The report features Ferndale Comprehensive School in Rhondda Cynon Taf where staff have tried hard to combat the lack of local employment opportunities by setting up a community enterprise. It provides work ‘tasters’, work experience and Year 11 apprenticeships to learners who would otherwise have no opportunities to experience the workplace.

Today’s report, Partnerships with employers in secondary and special schools, contains further case studies and recommendations including that schools evaluate the impact of their partnerships and activities on pupils’ understanding of the world of work. The Welsh Government should also work with Careers Wales and other partners to evaluate the impact of current programmes and produce guidance to support schools to make links with employers.