Why Work Placements Are a Game-Changer for Your Future
Work placements give you the chance to take what you’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in a real professional environment.
They are encouraged because they play an important role in preparing you for your future - whether that’s university, an apprenticeship, or employment.
1. You turn classroom learning into real-world experience
A work placement helps your studies make sense beyond the classroom. You might support lessons in a primary school, help with marketing or admin in a local business, assist on a construction site, or gain experience in a healthcare or care setting. Seeing how your subject works in practice can make learning more engaging and relevant.
2. You develop skills employers and universities expect
In the workplace, you’ll build skills that go beyond your course content. This includes communicating professionally with colleagues and customers, managing your time, solving problems, and working as part of a team. These are essential skills that employers and universities actively look for.
3. You gain real examples to use in applications and interviews
A placement gives you practical experiences you can talk about with confidence. Instead of just saying you’re organised or a good communicator, you’ll be able to explain how you demonstrated those skills in a professional setting - something that strengthens job applications, interviews, and UCAS personal statements.
4. You can explore a career before committing to it
Work placements give you the chance to test out a career you’re interested in and see if it’s right for you. Spending time in a real workplace helps you understand the role, the environment, and what’s expected, making it easier to decide on your next steps.
5. You can choose a placement that supports your future plans
If you’re an A-Level student planning to go to university, choosing a placement linked to your uni course can really strengthen your application. For example, you might gain experience in healthcare, law, education, business, engineering, or the creative industries — all of which you can reference in your UCAS application.
6. You build confidence and independence
Stepping into a professional environment helps you grow in confidence and independence. You’ll learn how to introduce yourself, take responsibility, adapt to new situations, and meet workplace expectations. These skills will stay with you, long after you finish college and into your working career.
7. You invest in your future - and that’s why we encourage it
Work placements genuinely benefit your future. Students who complete placements often feel more confident, better prepared, and clearer about their career goals, whether they progress to university, apprenticeships, or employment.
January is the perfect time to secure your Spring Term placement - and Skills Week 2nd-6th March 2026) is the perfect time to do it.
Aim to arrange your placement by 31st January or at least four weeks before your placement starts. Once you’ve found the right opportunity, you can request it easily through Navigate. Sorting your work placement now is another step towards your future career.
For guidance on finding and requesting a placement, visit My Student Life or speak to your tutor.