Experience of the Work Place

At Fountains High School, we are committed to ensuring that all learners access meaningful experiences of workplaces that develop their understanding of the world of work, build employability skills and support informed future decision-making. In line with Gatsby Benchmark 6, learners access meaningful workplace experiences before the age of 16 and further experiences before the age of 18.

Meaningful workplace experiences allow learners to explore different working environments, interact with employers and employees, undertake workplace-related tasks, receive feedback and reflect on their learning. These experiences help prepare our young people for adulthood, further education, training and employment.

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3, learners begin exploring the world of work through workplace visits, employer encounters and enterprise activities. Working alongside employee mentors, learners take part in enterprise projects that develop teamwork, communication, problem-solving and creativity while providing insight into different careers and industries.

We are continually developing and extending these opportunities to ensure they meet the Gatsby criteria for meaningful workplace experiences, enabling learners to learn directly from employers and gain first-hand experience of workplace environments.

Key Stage 4

In Key Stage 4, learners participate in work experience placements that are carefully matched to their aspirations, interests and strengths, while reflecting opportunities within the local labour market. Learners also engage in enterprise activities supported by employee mentors, providing further opportunities to develop employability skills and gain valuable employer feedback.

Preparation, employer guidance and reflective activities help learners make meaningful connections between their experiences, career aspirations and future pathways.

Key Stage 5

All Post-16 learners benefit from workplace experiences designed to support preparation for adulthood and future employment. Learners gain work-based learning experience through The Coffee Bean and The Potting Shed, developing transferable skills including communication, customer service, teamwork and problem-solving.

In addition, learners can access extended external work experience placements that are aligned to their individual aspirations, interests and career goals, helping them build confidence, independence and workplace readiness.

Kaleidoscope Provision

Learners within Kaleidoscope access appropriate workplace and community-based experiences through the Engage and Experience elements of the SHINE Curriculum. These personalised opportunities support the development of communication, independence, confidence and preparation for adulthood skills, helping learners to engage with the wider world and explore future possibilities.

Our Commitment

Through a progressive programme of workplace experiences from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 5, we aim to ensure every learner develops the skills, knowledge, confidence and aspirations needed for a successful future.

Specialist Support

Our dedicated work experience team work closely with learners, families, professionals and employers to identify suitable opportunities, prepare learners for workplace experiences and ensure placements are meaningful, accessible and tailored to individual needs.

Working with Employers

We are proud to work with a range of local employers and business partners who support our careers programme through workplace visits, work experience placements, enterprise activities, mentoring and employer encounters. These partnerships help learners develop their networks, understand employer expectations and explore a broad range of career opportunities.