Barry Comprehensive School

Jac at Barringtons Property Management and Letting Agency in High Street.

The last two weeks of the school term were a particularly productive time for year 10 students: their examinations were over, but the pupils turned their attention to the world of work and the skills needed to present themselves as independent young men.

Prior to attending their work experience placements, the year group were prepared for the world of work by their Business Studies teachers. This small team of staff had worked hard for months, collapsing the conventional timetable for year 10, and creating a varied programme of work-related workshops. These workshops included: ‘How to make that all important first impression’, ‘Keeping safe in the workplace’ and ‘Getting the best out of your CV’.

Taylor at The Full Monty in Holton Rd

In all, year 10 spent the week working on the skills needed to present themselves well in the workplace. Pupils studied Maslow’ s Hierarchy of Needs, undertook personality tests and were well briefed on Health and Safety in the workplace. Staff working with the pupils believe that they really focused on the skills they would need to do well in a new environment.

One such student is Jac Jones who worked for Barringtons Property Management and Letting Agency in High Street. Jac had a busy week, organising and helping with viewings. He is attending a follow-up seminar in his own time before beginning a regular Saturday job.

Taylor Williams worked with Deryn Smith down at The Full Monty in Holton Rd. Taylor helped prepare meals, cook full breakfasts and make pineapple-upside down cake! Taylor enjoyed the week, but doesn’t want to develop a career in catering as the hours are so long. Deryn, who praised Taylor for his hard work, deserves a particular thank you for taking several students this year.

Levi with Emma at Area 41, home of 'Vibe Experience'

Levi Sims thought he knew exactly what to expect when he asked to do a week’s work with ‘Vibe Experience Ltd’ - dance, dance and more dance. However, Levi found himself involved in all sorts of work, from setting up the Memorial Hall, to working through office admin. He said, ‘The experience has made me realise how much more is involved’. Emma Mallam, working with Levi, said, ‘He has worked hard. He helped run a class for people with disabilities and found it really rewarding’.

Barry Comprehensive would like to thank the many businesses and organisations who took our students, giving them a real insight into the world of work. Many companies had prepared induction packs for students and taken time out of busy schedules to work with the young people. Work experience week would not be possible without this generous support.

Wed, 26 Aug 2009