Last week, our Year 10 students swapped the classroom for the workplace, taking part in an inspiring and diverse range of work experience placements across the region. From bustling law firms and creative kitchens to healthcare settings and engineering sites, pupils embraced the opportunity to explore future career paths and develop essential skills for life beyond school.
Throughout the week, students took up placements with respected organisations including KPMG, Squire Biggs law firm, Heritage Financial Advisors, Every’s Solicitors in Taunton, Musgrove Hospital, Claims Consortium, the Magistrates Court, and laboratories. Others ventured into hospitality at the Marriott Hotel Exeter kitchen and Lympstone Manor under the guidance of acclaimed Michelin-Star chef Michael Caines, or experienced the fast-paced world of civil engineering with Costain. Placements also included local primary schools, Holm Kitchens, and many more, reflecting the incredible breadth and quality of opportunities available to our pupils.
Year 10 Year Lead, Jess Watkins, praised the students’ commitment and maturity: “Feedback from employers has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the students’ professionalism and enthusiasm. I am proud of how well our students represented the school and the meaningful connections they made during this important step in their personal and career development.”
Employers consistently remarked on how engaged and capable the students were, with many commenting on their positive attitudes, curiosity, and willingness to contribute. Several organisations have already expressed interest in offering placements to future cohorts after such a successful week.
Students returned with a clearer understanding of the expectations and opportunities within different professions, alongside a boost in confidence from tackling real-world challenges. Whether shadowing solicitors in courtrooms, assisting in classrooms, supporting engineering projects, or helping prepare gourmet dishes, each pupil gained a unique perspective on working life.
