Why should I get involved with work experience placements?

By supporting work experience placements your company can gain a number of benefits. From enhancing your company’s image in the community to helping develop links to local schools and therefore potential future employees. The motivation and personal development of your employees can be improved through the satisfaction of helping a young person gain an insight into your business and the wider motor industry. You will also help develop the skills of the next generation workforce and provide them with an understanding of the world of work.


What about health and safety requirements?

Successful management of the health and safety of work experience placements relies on close co-operation between all participants i.e. Education Authorities, Employers, Teachers, Students and their Parents or Guardians.

Employers have the statutory responsibility as laid down in the Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974 for the duty of care for all employees and must ensure, so far as is practicable, their health, safety and welfare at work. Students on work experience have the same protection under health and safety law as employees.

According to current legislation, employers are required to assess the risks to their young workers (anyone under the age of 18) before they start work. This entails assessing the risks which they will be exposed to at work and ensuring appropriate control measures, training and supervision are in place. The Work Experience Toolkit provides forms and guidance to help with this process and the work experience organiser will be able to give you full information and any necessary advice.


Do I need to notify my insurance company that I have work experience students?

In most cases your Public and Employer's Insurances will provide cover for students during the period of work experience. Businesses providing work experience should be prepared to accept students on this basis but should nevertheless advise their insurers of their intention to provide placements to young people.


How can I arrange to take someone on work experience?

Contact your local school who will be able to assist with the arrangements for the placement and ensure minimum disruption to your company. The work experience toolkit contains comprehensive guidance and support materials to help with planning the placement as well as suggestions on how to achieve a successful work experience.

You can also visit http://www.workit.info/ where you will be able to register interest with your local authority work experience unit who will contact you.