Work Experience

'Curriculum Design for the Secondary Stages' (1999) explains that there is an expectation that all pupils will participate in a period of work experience before leaving school. It also suggests that learning and teaching can be enriched through pupil participation in this important aspect of preparation for the world of work.The aim of this IDES Network publication is to go beyond the guidance and advice in Scottish CCC documentation by exemplifying good practice in a range of settings. In compiling the resource no attempt was made to define a fixed agenda or procedure for delivering work experience and the IDES Network recognises that many other case studies could have been undertaken to demonstrate effective means of delivery.

It is hoped that the message which readers will take from this collection involving 15 schools is that work experience can be delivered in a wide variety of ways and that flexibility in approach, according to pupil need and opportunities available, can lead to exciting and stimulating experiences for all pupils.