How to Find Work Experience: A Practical Guide for Students Who Want to Stand Out

 Why Work Experience Even Matters

Before we dive into the how, here’s why you should bother:

•  Boosts your UCAS, apprenticeship, or job applications
• Helps you discover what you like—or hate—before it’s too late
• Teaches real skills you don’t learn in school
•  Builds confidence and professional communication
• Gives you something impressive to talk about in interviews

 1. Start with YOU: What Are You Curious About?

Before you send a single email, ask yourself:

• What subjects do I enjoy most?
• Do I prefer working with people, data, hands-on tools, or ideas?
• Am I more creative, analytical, caring, or technical?

Write down 3–5 career areas that match your interests. You don’t need to be certain—just curious.

📌 Example: If you like science and helping people → try a pharmacy, dentist, or NHS clinic.
If you like writing and debate → try marketing, law, or journalism.

 2. Use the 4 Core Routes to Find Work Experience

 1. Family, Friends & Personal Network

This is your easiest starting point. Ask:

• Parents, carers, older siblings
• Teachers, tutors, neighbours
• Your friend’s mum who’s a vet / lawyer / business owner

You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help if you just ask politely.

2. Cold Emails & Letters

Choose a company and write a short, personal email like this:

Subject: Work Experience Enquiry – Year 11 Student

Dear [Name],
My name is [Your Name] and I’m a Year 11 student interested in [Career Area]. I’d love the opportunity to gain some experience or shadow someone at your organisation, even for a day or two.

I’m reliable, curious, and eager to learn. I’d be very grateful for any opportunity to observe and assist.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Contact info]

Tip: Follow up after 7 days if you get no reply.

 3. Ask Your School

Many schools have links with local employers. Ask your head of year, careers adviser, or work experience coordinator if they can suggest contacts or provide a placement list.

4. Use Online Platforms

• Springpod – Free virtual work experience (law, STEM, healthcare, etc.)
• Speakers for Schools – Online & in-person placements
• Young Professionals UK – Employer insight days
• Student Ladder / RateMyPlacement – Opportunities for 16–18+

 3. Don’t Be Afraid to Pick Up the Phone

A short call shows confidence and often gets quicker results than email.

 Example script:

“Hi, my name is [Your Name]. I’m a Year 11 student looking to gain a few days of work experience. I’m interested in [career area], and I’d love the chance to shadow someone or help out. Do you know if that’s something your company offers?”

 4. Know When to Ask

Good times to seek placements:

• End of June / early July (when schools often do work experience)
• October half term
• Christmas break or Easter
• Summer holidays (especially for longer placements)

Ask at least 4–6 weeks in advance—some companies need time to get DBS checks or check insurance.

5. Be Flexible—and a Bit Bold

Not every experience needs to be formal.

Think creatively:

• Shadow a local photographer for a day
• Help run a kid’s summer camp
• Volunteer at a charity shop
• Sit in on a court case (they’re often public)
• Email your local MP to shadow their office

Sometimes just asking opens unexpected doors.

6. Keep a Work Experience Journal

Whether it's a single day or two weeks, write about what you learn:

• What did I enjoy?
• What surprised me?
• What skills did I use or see in action?
• Would I want to do this job again?

This reflection will help you write great UCAS personal statements or prep for interviews later on.

Quick Checklist: What to Do Now

•  List 3–5 career areas you’re interested in
•  Ask family, friends, or teachers for contacts
•  Write and send 3–5 emails this week
•  Follow up on responses and thank everyone
•  Keep notes during your placement for future use

💬 Final Thought

You don’t need to have your life figured out. You just need to start exploring. Work experience isn’t about being perfect—it’s about learning, asking questions, and showing you’re willing to try.