Work experience is a great way to explore different jobs, build confidence and get a feel for what working life is like — especially if you’re not sure what you want to do yet.
We offer flexible and supportive work experience opportunities for care‑experienced young people. You don’t need previous experience or a clear career plan to take part. Work experience is about trying things out, learning what you enjoy and building confidence in a way that works for you.
There are different types of work experience available, from short taster sessions to longer placements, so you can choose what feels right. You’ll be supported before, during and after your placement, and you’ll always have a named contact or supervisor to help you.
Our approach is practical, supportive and focused on helping you succeed.
What you can expect
- support to prepare and understand what to expect at work
- a named contact or supervisor during your placement
- encouragement, feedback and guidance on next steps
Types of work experience
You don’t need a clear career plan or to know exactly what you want to do. Work experience is about trying things out, finding what you enjoy, and building confidence at your own pace.
We offer different options so you can choose what feels right for you.
Short taster sessions
These are brief sessions (1–2 hours or a half day) where you can chat with staff, observe a team, and get a feel for a role.
Observation days
You can shadow staff for one or more days to see what they do, without any pressure to take part.
Weekly sessions
These are short placements over several weeks, helping you build routine and confidence gradually.
Project-based placements
You’ll work on a specific task or project over a few days or weeks, which is ideal if you like structure and clear goals.
You don’t have to choose straight away and support is available to help you decide what’s best for you.
How work experience works
Step 1
You’ll learn about different council roles, explore what interests you, and talk it through with your adviser to find the most suitable work experience placement.
Before you start, you’ll get help with travel, what to wear, who to contact, and any paperwork. Your PA can also attend meetings or inductions with you if needed.
Step 2
Step 3
During your placement, you’ll have a named contact, clear guidance, time to ask questions, and support if you need it, helping you feel safe, supported and confident.
After your placement, you’ll get a completion certificate, reflect on how it went, and receive support from your PA and Virtual School to plan next steps such as further experience, training, apprenticeships or work.
Step 4
Throughout the process, you’ll be supported by:·
- your personal advisor
- your colleagues hosting the placement
- Children’s Services and Education / Virtual School staff
How to get in touch about work experience
To get in touch with us speak to your Personal Advisor. If you are a young person aged between 21 and 25 and no longer have a Personal Advisor allocated then you can contact the CEYP Duty Line direct:
- by phone on 01202 118 500
- by email at ceypduty@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
All images on this page were taken by Rylee Dickinson who is one of our care experienced young people.