The Work Ready Programme – Sir Thomas Wharton Academy
December 3, 2025
Our Work Ready Programme goes beyond traditional work experience, aiming to equip students with the skills and confidence they need for future employment. We strive to exceed the expectation of providing at least 10 days of work experience, through a structured programme that includes:
- Electives for Years 7-9
- 1 day work shadowing in Year 7
- 1 day work shadowing in Year 8
- 5 days’ work experience in Year 10
For our Year 10 students, this programme is delivered in partnership with EE, following their involvement in our mock interviews. Together, we explored how to better prepare students for modern recruitment processes, leading to a comprehensive approach that covers both general job applications and apprenticeship pathways.
The programme takes students through the application process from start to finish, including:
- How to create a strong CV
- Different types of interviews and common pitfalls
- Mock interviews and feedback
- Tips on standing out to employers
By combining practical experience with targeted preparation, the Work Ready Programme ensures students leave school with the confidence and skills to succeed in the workplace. Given its success, we hope to expand this partnership with EE to lower year groups over the coming years.
“We were fed up of getting applicants who are not properly equipped for the industry, so this programme allows us to plug the gap we have in our workforce whilst allowing students to be more prepared for the workplace.” – EE
“Work experience used to be seen as a ‘doss’ week for students, especially as some struggled to get placements they were interested in, whereas now they see more meaning in what they are doing and make more links between the EE work and their placement in the wider concept of getting a job.” Careers SLT
