The work-related learning guide 19
7
`Working in the hair
and beauty sector
is only for girls
and working in the
construction sector is
only for boys'.
No, it is not. And it is important to support young people, parents
and employers in challenging gender stereotyping, and to create a
work environment that provides equal opportunities for everyone
in every sector.
8
Work-related learning
only happens in the
secondary sector and
not in the primary
sector.
No. It is a statutory requirement at KS4 but many primary schools provide
activities that relate to work-related learning, such as visits to local
employers, employers giving talks in local schools, etc.
9
Work-related learning
is very time consuming
and onerous for
employers.
It doesn't need to be. There is a broad range of work-related learning
options to help the development of young people. They can involve
diff erent kinds and levels of commitment employers who are interested
in getting involved can choose from a range of options and support is
available from Education Business Partnership Organisations to minimise
any bureaucracy and ensure quality.
10
Other forms of work-
related learning, for
example a presentation
from an employer,
can count towards
the work experience
requirement within
Diplomas.
Not true. Young people must take part in a minimum of 10 days' work
experience to complete their Diploma. We strongly recommend that this
minimum work experience requirement for Diplomas is supported by other
forms of work-related learning (see defi nition of work-related learning on
page 6).
11
There aren't enough
work experience
placements to support
Diplomas.
A vast increase in
employer placements
is needed to make
Diplomas work.
Not true. Around 550,000 placements take place each year at
Key Stage 4 alone. But Diploma delivery may mean that a greater range,
depth and quality of work experience placements, including for 1618
year olds, is required in particular areas and sectors/occupations.
Building on what is currently available, we believe this is achievable.
This is why it is important to work with our employers as eff ectively
and effi
ciently as possible.
12
Insurance is expensive.
That isn't necessarily the case as most employers will already have in place
insurance policies that cover most risks arising from work experience and
other visits, provided that the work experience is in accordance with the
normal business practices of the employer (see the Association of British
Insurers guidance at Annex 4).