Virtual Work Experience

Curriculum for Excellence embraces a range of experiences through which all young people will have opportunities to develop the skills for learning, skills for life and skills for work.  Such experiences are intended to provide opportunities for learning to be placed in relevant contexts, and for the value and future applicability of learning to be more visible, particularly for the student.  Experiencing the world of work is, therefore, an increasingly important part of the curriculum and Virtual Work Experience is an innovative resource that supports this important area.

It’s a relevant and fun interactive resource in which pupils interact with real workers, doing real jobs, and learn about different aspects of their place of work and job skills.  It can support the curriculum in many ways: its primary aim, though, is to support work placements which, in some sectors and some parts of the country may be difficult to come by.  By opening the doors to the workplace,  Virtual Work Experience allows young people to explore a range of different work environments within the safe confines of what is familiar territory to most of them – computer gaming technology.  It’s accessible from any PC, so can be used in schools, in other learning centre and at home; and offers opportunities to engage other partners, including employers and parents.

The session will look at how this innovative resource encourages an enterprising approach to enhancing skills for life and work and supports the 4 capacities for learning.  It will involve a description of the resource, how it might be used and a practical demonstration.  It will be followed by an opportunity to ‘try it for yourself’ at the Learning and Teaching Scotland stand (F16) in the Exhibition Hall (Hall 4).

Ian Carse is Head of Career Services for the Highlands and Islands and is part of Skills Development Scotland.  He has 33 years experience in career guidance.

Rosie Whelan is a Senior Executive in the Enterprise and Employability for Young People Division of Scottish Government.  With wide experience in economic and skills development, she now plays a key role in Determined to Succeed and More Choices, More Chances.

Gayle Monteith is a Technical Project Manager in Learning and Teaching Scotland, delivering online resources for teachers and learners across Scotland.