Project 'transforming' work experience for students

More than 100 students have taken part in a new work experience project where all of them were involved in a single placement.

The scheme, in Yeovil in Somerset, is different to the normal type of work experience where one student usually shadows an employer.

Thirty Year 10 students from Preston School worked in teams to reimagine Somerset shoemakers Clarks, for a new generation of 14 to 15-year-olds.

Dylan, a Year 10 student, said: "I felt the confidence going through me. I was really nervous to presenting to lots of people I didn't know, but it was a good experience."

The university said it aims to show that work experience can be more than just doing basic office tasks but can be a way into the digital economy.

Ewa, another Year 10 student told BBC Radio Somerset: "It was great as we all worked together as a team.

"I liked having this opportunity and felt I was good at leading the group. It's really important to ensure everyone is involved."

For five days, students explored branding, digital marketing, and presentation skills, finishing in a live pitch showcase.

This included designing a brand complete with a name, logo, mission, digital marketing plan, ecommerce landing page and a pitch deck.

Nina Allen, Careers Advisor at Preston School, said: "It's creative, relevant, and gives our students a real sense of ownership and confidence. Many of them will have limited information about careers in digital before this week."

Nick Brook, CEO of Speakers for Schools, said: "The current work experience model simply doesn't work for everyone.

"We're piloting this model to show that with the right structure, collaboration, and support, we can give every young person, regardless of background, a meaningful introduction to the modern world of work."

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