Worcestershire businesses urged to lead the way as work experience evolves

Early Careers Worcestershire, part of Worcestershire County Council’s Skills & Employability service, is working with schools and employers to move beyond the traditional one-week placement model. The new approach includes workplace visits, employer-led projects, industry encounters and shorter placements delivered throughout a student’s secondary school journey.

Working alongside the Careers & Enterprise Company and Worcestershire Growth Hub, the programme aims to make work experience more inclusive, relevant and aligned to local skills needs.

The shift presents a clear opportunity for Worcestershire businesses to support future talent and showcase the careers available on their doorstep.

A new campaign, “If not you...then who?”, is encouraging employers to step forward and play a leading role in shaping tomorrow’s workforce. A special business forum will take place on Wednesday 13 May at Visit Worcestershire New Road, home of Worcestershire County Cricket Club, to introduce the new model and give employers the opportunity to get involved.

Councillor Alan Amos, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Business and Skills at Worcestershire County Council, said, “We cannot sit back and hope someone else prepares the next generation. Worcestershire businesses have a responsibility - and a real opportunity - to get involved. This is about opening doors, raising aspirations and showing young people exactly what is possible right here in Worcestershire. Those who step forward will help shape the workforce of the future. Those who don’t risk being left behind.”

Early Careers Worcestershire recently hosted the Skills Expo at Sixways Stadium, where over four thousand students from Worcestershire schools Years 9 to 11 met employers, education and training providers.

Matt Tope, Programme Manager for Early Careers Worcestershire, said, “Work experience is evolving to better prepare young people for modern careers and support employers in developing their future workforce. We’ve seen the hunger of school students wanting to interact with businesses that call Worcestershire home, we saw that with Skills Expo. Now, by working closely with schools and businesses, we can build a work experience system that works for everyone. Employers who get involved with our If Not You Then Who? Campaign and our business forum, can create meaningful experiences, inspire local students and help grow the skills our county needs.”

Employers interested in supporting the new approach are encouraged to get involved. They can contact Early Careers Worcestershire via cec@worcestershire.gov.uk or by attending the Modern Work Experience business forum, details of which can be found online at www.rebrand.ly/MWEX.