Modern Work Experience

Modern work experience should guarantee every young person access to high-quality, multiple workplace experiences, totalling 10 days' worth throughout secondary education.

This equitable approach will facilitate a variety of experiences starting early, connecting education and young people with industry and unlocking the skills and opportunities of the future workforce. 

High quality work experience helps young people get ready for the world of work and when integrated into a structured careers programme - as defined by the Gatsby Benchmarks, work experience:  

• Increases awareness of jobs and pathways like apprenticeships.
• Builds confidence in key skills like speaking and listening.
• Reduces the likelihood of a young person becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) at 16 and 18.

What is the value of modern work experience?

Modern work experience will help young people to make informed choices and improve career readiness and employability by offering multiple, variable and targeted experiences throughout their education journey.

The equalex framework, developed by The Careers & Enterprise Company, plays a vital role in supporting the government's commitment to introduce 10 days' worth of modern work experience for every young person.

Designed to meet the needs of young people, educators, employers, and providers, the framework enables a wide range of high quality activities through a whole-school approach, effectively bridging the gap between the curriculum and the world of work.