Careers - latest news/events
Information on Work Experience
 |
Careers Lead Ms Peta Gail Lewinson |
As part of our careers programme, Year 10 and Year 12 students are offered the opportunity to take part in Work Experience.
Although participation is optional, it provides students with the chance to complete a one-week placement that can offer valuable insight into the world of work.
Work Experience allows students to gain first-hand experience of working life. Harris Invictus Academy Croydon will support students wherever possible in securing a placement; however, many employers prefer to be contacted directly by the student. As placements can be highly competitive, we strongly recommend starting early and approaching organisations independently. Rejections are common, so persistence is key — don’t be discouraged.
Work Experience usually takes place over five days in July.
The Process
To take part in Work Experience, the following steps must be completed:
- Identify businesses or organisations you could approach for a placement
- Complete and submit the Work Experience Form by June
- Arrange an interview with your chosen employer
Once your form has been submitted, the Academy will contact the proposed employer to confirm the placement and provide the necessary documentation.
How to Find a Placement
A work placement gives you the opportunity to step outside the classroom and learn more about a specific job or career sector. It can help you make informed decisions about your options after Year 11 and allows you to develop and demonstrate essential skills such as confidence, communication, independence, and responsibility.
What Types of Work Experience Can I Do?
Most students will be expected to organise their own placements. Start by thinking about your interests and favourite subjects. You may find it helpful to create a list of careers related to these subjects. Beginning your search early will greatly improve your chances of finding a suitable placement.
Examples include:
- English: Newspapers, libraries, press offices, teaching, law, advertising, TV & film, radio
- Maths: Banking, accountancy and finance, engineering, meteorology
- Geography: Environmental services, charities, development organisations, politics
Family and friends can also be a valuable source of opportunities. Consider whether your parents, guardians, relatives, or family friends work in areas that interest you. You might also think about local shops, businesses, or organisations you already know or pass regularly.
You can also use online directories such as www.yell.co.uk to search for local businesses.
For example, try searching for “solicitor” in “Croydon”.
Tips for a Successful Placement
- Create a list of at least 10 organisations you would like to contact
- Phone or visit them to ask whether they offer work experience placements
- Example: “Hello, I’m enquiring about the possibility of arranging a work experience placement from 6th July.”
- If an employer offers placements, they will explain the next steps
- Remember that work experience opportunities are competitive, so first impressions matter
- Apply on your own rather than with a friend — employers are more likely to respond positively to individuals who appear confident, motivated, and independent
Click for an example/template guide letter -
Other advice
- Podcast - ‘The Parent Perspective’ which is a podcast series for parents and carers who want to support their children with careers advice and guidance. More information can be found at: Click here
- Rapid Reads are a set of guides which explain a wealth of career information ranging from ‘What is a degree apprenticeship?’ through to ‘What are traineeships?’ and ‘What are T Levels?’ More information can be found here click
- National Apprenticeship week tool kit
