Work Experience Week was an exciting opportunity for all Year 10 students to take their first meaningful steps into the world of work. The main aim was to help students explore potential career pathways, raise aspirations, and begin building the mindset and skills needed to succeed in Year 11 and beyond.

Throughout the week, students engaged in activities that focused on:

• Teamwork
• Entrepreneurship
• Effective communication
• Personal growth

They met real employers, listened to inspiring speakers, and took part in practical workshops designed to shape their future goals. This entire experience supported Gatsby Benchmark 6, which ensures young people have meaningful encounters with the world of work—a vital step in making informed decisions about their futures.

Day 1 Spotlight: CV Workshops with Higgins Construction

The week began with a dynamic and inspiring session led by Higgins Construction, a leading name in the construction and development industry. Students took part in a launch assembly, where they learned how to build a standout CV, understand what employers look for, and took part in a real-world CV challenge.

Student Challenge

Students were tasked with creating and submitting a professional CV to Higgins Construction.

• The student with the best CV won a £20 Amazon voucher
• Runners-up received chocolate and stationery prizes from Higgins
• All CVs were submitted in printed format by the end of the day

Why It Mattered

This experience was more than just a CV workshop—it was a powerful introduction to the working world and an opportunity for students to develop skills that employers value. From active listening and note-taking to effective writing and presenting, students took meaningful steps toward preparing for their futures.

In Summary:

• Students submitted well-prepared CVs
• Many engaged actively with Higgins staff, asking thoughtful questions
• The experience helped build confidence and raise aspirations for Post-16 and beyond
• We are proud of all Year 10 students for their mature and enthusiastic participation throughout Work Experience Week.