Myth-busting guide
This short guide challenges misconceptions about education-employer partnerships.
Myth: Work experience doesn't make a difference.
Fact: Yes it does. For example, the CBI Report 'Time well spent' referred to a 2006 survey of 14-16 year-olds who had recently been on work experience. It said that over two-thirds of respondents agreed, or strongly agreed, that work experience had helped them to understand how learning at school is important in getting a job. Almost 80% agreed it had given them a good insight into the world of work.
Myth: The statutory work-related learning requirement at Key Stage 4 is for two weeks' work experience.
Fact: This is not true. Work-related learning programmes provided by schools and colleges can include a wide range of activities. These programmes may link to the QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority: the body that maintains and develops the National Curriculum) framework on economic wellbeing 11-19: career, work-related learning and enterprise. However, there is a requirement for Diploma students to take part in a minimum of ten days' work experience.
Myth: Young people under 16 can't do placements in industry or some sectors for health and safety reasons.
Fact: This is not true. However, a risk assessment must be carried out to identify any significant increase in risk to the health, safety and welfare of a young person on a work placement, and appropriate measures put in place. Where the risk to the young person cannot be managed and controlled to an acceptable level and the placement cannot take place, an alternative placement may be found.
Myth: Each member of an employer's staff who is involved in work experience has to have a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check.
Fact: This is not true. CRB checks are only needed in certain situations.
Myth: Young people with special educational needs and/or disability can't take part in work-related learning.
Fact: Like all students, it is important for young people with special educational needs and/or disability to take part in high quality placements that help them to develop employability skills and explore their career choices. Some young people may need adjustments in the workplace to take part, but these will generally cost little or nothing to make and the benefits and rewards outweigh any additional effort required.
Myth: Work-related learning only happens in the secondary sector and not in the primary sector.
Fact: No. It is a statutory requirement at Key Stage 4 but many primary schools provide activities that relate to work-related learning, such as visits to local employers and talks in local schools.
Myth: Work-related learning is very time consuming and onerous for employers.
Fact: It doesn't need to be. There is a broad range of work-related learning options to help the development of young people. They can involve different kinds and levels of commitment - employers who are interested in getting involved can choose from a range of options, and support is available from Education Business Partnership Organisations to minimise any bureaucracy and ensure quality.
Myth: Other forms of work-related learning, for example a presentation from an employer, can count towards the work experience requirement within Diplomas.
Fact: This is not true. Young people must take part in a minimum of ten days' work experience to complete their Diploma. This minimum work experience requirement for Diplomas should ideally be supported by other forms of work-related learning.
Myth: Insurance is expensive.
Fact: That isn't necessarily the case as most employers will already have insurance policies in place that cover most risks arising from work experience and other visits, provided that the work experience is in accordance with the normal business practices of the employer.
Myth-busting guide taken from The Work-Related Learning Guide (Second Edition)