Supporting Gatsby Benchmarks Through Real-World Experience
UK Work Placement supports schools, colleges and young people by providing meaningful employer engagement and first-hand workplace experiences aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks.
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What Are The Gatsby Benchmarks?
The Gatsby Benchmarks define world-class careers guidance for young people in England and provide a framework for schools, colleges and training providers.
A National Framework
There are eight Gatsby Benchmarks which define world-class careers guidance for young people in England. They are now used in more than 4,700 secondary schools, colleges and independent training providers.
Updated For Today's Young People
Following two years of extensive research and consultation, the Gatsby Benchmarks were updated in 2024 to ensure they continue to define world-class careers guidance.
Government Careers Guidance
The Gatsby Benchmarks have been central to government statutory guidance since 2018.
Encounters With Employers & Employees
Every pupil should have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace.
How UK Work Placement Supports Benchmark 5
- Arrange local employers and employees to speak to students about their industry.
- Help students understand career paths and routes into different industries.
- Highlight personal skills, qualities and transferable workplace skills.
- Explain the academic standards required within different sectors.
- Arrange industry representatives to mentor small groups of students.
- Provide support for careers events, mock interviews and networking.
- Provide CV support to help students prepare for employment.
- Source guest speakers from specific industries and professional sectors.
Every learner should have first-hand experiences of workplaces to help their exploration of career opportunities and expand their networks.
How UK Work Placement Supports Benchmark 6
- Arrange visits to local companies and workplaces.
- Secure suitable work placements for students seeking extended vocational experience.
- Ensure each work placement is meaningful and valuable to the young person.
- Manage the placement process from inception through to completion.
- Support schools, students and host companies throughout the process.
- Help create a smooth placement experience for everyone involved.
Experiences Of Workplaces
First-hand workplace experiences give young people an opportunity to understand different careers, develop professional networks and experience the expectations of real working environments.
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Creating Meaningful Career Experiences
Our approach connects students with employers, workplaces and practical opportunities that support their career development.
Employer Engagement
Students gain direct access to employers, industry professionals and people with real workplace experience.
Meaningful Placements
We help secure suitable placements that provide genuine value and relevant workplace learning for young people.
Managed From Start To Finish
We support the placement process from initial planning through completion, helping all parties work together effectively.
Helping Young People Experience The World Of Work
UK Work Placement helps schools and education providers connect students with meaningful employer engagement and workplace experiences aligned with their careers guidance objectives.
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