Year 10 work experience

Why do I need work experience while at school?

You're not expected to have your future career mapped out at 14 or 15. Instead, work experience helps you understand:

• what you enjoy
• what you're good at
• what environments suit you.

Work experience can build your confidence and help you to:

• boost your CV and cover letters, giving you examples to use in applications
• build networks with professionals who can offer advice or support
• explore training routes such as T Levels, apprenticeships, or traineeships
• make A-level or college subject choices and decide whether a topic area interests you.

Even if you decide a role isn't for you, knowing what you don't enjoy can be just as valuable when planning your next steps.

What can I do for Year 10 work experience?

The best placements link to:

• areas you'd like to explore
• your favourite subjects
• your interests.

What matters most is the insight you gain and the skills you develop that add value to your CV and future job applications, but any role that helps you build transferable skills is worthwhile.

For example, shadowing a solicitor or working in a legal office can improve your communication and research skills, while giving you real insight into careers in law. Find out more about law work experience.

You could gain work experience in areas such as:

• animals and environment - vets, stables, wildlife trusts
• business and banking - HR departments, banks, accounting firms
• computing and IT - libraries, schools, office tech support
• creative arts and design - galleries, theatres, studios
• engineering and property - engineering firms, estate agents, trades.
• media and public services - councils, political groups, newspapers
• retail and hospitality - shops, cafés, supermarkets
• science and healthcare - research teams, local clinics, NHS departments
• sport and fitness - gyms, coaching in primary schools, sports clubs
• teaching - schools, nurseries, youth groups.

Remember to check age restrictions - some retail roles in pharmacies, for example, require you to be over 16.

What companies offer Year 10 work experience?

Some large organisations run structured programmes for Year 10 students, including:

• Amazon - their Step Up Work Experience Programme involves a week of skills labs, team challenges, and mentor shadowing (applications usually go through schools).
• British Airways - hands-on experience in engineering, business, or airport operations.
• West London NHS Trust - placements in nursing, allied health, and clinical areas. Other NHS Trusts such as Mid Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Gloucestershire and East Cheshire also provide Year 10 work experience opportunities. Do some research to see what's available in your local area.
• RHS Gardens New Shoots - horticulture placements covering gardening, plant science, and visitor services.
• J. P. Morgan - opportunities across multiple cities aimed at widening access to banking careers.
• The Met Office - placements in forecasting, technology, engineering, and communications.

Some retailers such as Boots, Primark, and Lloyds Pharmacy may also accept students locally, so it's worth contacting your nearest shop directly

Several universities also offer work experience placements to Year 10 students. These subject-specific programmes allow you to explore careers in the field, as well as in academic settings. See:

• University of Bristol
• University of Cambridge
• University of Manchester
• University of Warwick

How long is year 10 work experience?

Most placements run for one or two weeks, often during the summer term in June or July.

Students under 16 are protected by strict rules about where and how they can work. You cannot:

• do hazardous work or use dangerous machinery
• work late evenings or overnight
• work unsupervised.

Your working hours will usually be shorter than a full 35 to 40 hour working week and must include regular breaks. Exact hours vary depending on the:

• placement
• school policies
• the type of work involved.

How do I find a Year 10 work experience placement?

Finding the right placement takes some planning. Here are some effective ways to get started:

• ask your school - many schools have links with local employers, councils, or hospitals
• family and friends - someone you know may be able to help you get a placement
• contact local businesses - shops, councils, museums, and healthcare providers often welcome students
• search online - try terms like 'Year 10 work experience near me' along with your town or city, and email companies directly.

Discover how to ask employers for work experience.

What will I do during my placement?

Your tasks will depend on the organisation, but you might:

• attend meetings
• complete small projects
• learn how the workplace operates
• shadow staff.

Each day is a chance to learn new skills and observe professionals at work. Be sure to ask questions, take notes, and show enthusiasm.

Don't worry if you don't have any previous experience. Employers know you're just starting out and are looking for enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to get involved - not years of experience.

Most Year 10 placements are unpaid, but the experience, skills, and confidence you gain can be far more valuable at this stage.

Employers do not normally cover travel or lunch costs. You may need to:

• bring a packed lunch or money to buy food
• pay for your own travel to and from the workplace.

Check with the employer or your school in advance so you know what to expect.

Explore everything you need to know about work experience.

What do employers expect from Year 10 students?

Employers understand that Year 10 students are new to the workplace, but they still expect professional behaviour. This includes:

• arriving on time each day
• being polite and respectful
• listening carefully and following instructions
• limiting phone use unless permitted
• respecting confidentiality, especially in offices, schools, or healthcare settings.

You should dress smartly and in a way that reflects the workplace environment. For office‑based placements, this typically means wearing smart‑casual clothing, such as:

• a clean shirt or top
• comfortable closed shoes
• trousers or a skirt.

You don't need to wear a suit, but avoid:

• ripped jeans
• slogans on clothing
• trainers, unless you're told they're allowed.

In laboratories, hospitals, or healthcare settings, you may be given a uniform, lab coat, or safety equipment to wear. For safety, you might also be asked to:

• remove jewellery
• wear closed-toe shoes
• tie back long hair.

If you're unsure what to wear, it's best to ask the employer or your school contact before your placement starts.

How do I apply for year 10 work experience?

Applying for work experience helps you build confidence and learn how to present yourself professionally. You'll need to provide a:

• short CV
• cover letter.

You should begin applying for Year 10 work experience placements between October and January, aiming to secure a placement by spring term - around March or April.

Most schools support Year 10 work experience by coordinating placements or guiding you through the application process. This may include:

• providing a list of approved employers
• organising placements on your behalf
• using an online work experience platform where you can browse and apply for opportunities.

Schools also help with permission forms, safeguarding checks, and employer agreements, and may offer support with writing your CV and cover letter.

Many popular programmes fill early, and schools often have internal deadlines for paperwork and safeguarding checks. Starting early will you more choice and time to prepare.

You can also write a simple email to each employer. Here is an example of what you could say:

How do I write a CV for Year 10 work experience?

Your CV doesn't need to be long. You'll need to include your:

• name, age, and contact details
• personal statement explaining why you want the placement
• skills, hobbies, or volunteering that show responsibility
• school and education.

Research the company and tailor your application to them to show interest when you apply. Make sure your CV is clear and uses professional language.

What happens after my placement?

Once your placement ends:

• thank your employer
• reflect on what you learned
• update your CV.

Many schools ask students to complete a reflection or logbook. You might be asked to reflect on:

• what you enjoyed most and least
• what surprised you about the workplace
• what skills you used or developed
• whether you would consider this career in the future.

You can also ask for a reference or written feedback, which can be useful for:

• further education applications
• interviews
• university personal statements.

Find out more

• Explore your career options as a school leaver.
• Discover how to choose a career.