The world of work is changing and so is the way schools prepare young people for their futures. The Careers & Enterprise Company’s Modern Work Experience programme represents a new national ambition: every student should have at least ten days of meaningful, high-quality workplace experience before leaving school. This is about more than a single week of shadowing, it’s a structured, progressive programme that gives students multiple opportunities to engage with employers, build practical skills, and understand what it takes to succeed in work.
At Leicestershire Cares, we believe this is a game-changer for local young people and we want to help businesses across Leicester and Leicestershire make it a reality. Our education project is built on strong partnerships with schools and colleges, and on years of experience connecting employers with learners through employability events, mock interviews, speed networking, and skills workshops. Now, we want to go further by working with you to deliver the Modern Work Experience programme in a way that benefits both students and employers.
Why Modern Work Experience Matters
Modern Work Experience is designed to prepare students for the workplace in a much deeper way than traditional placements ever could. Under the CEC’s framework, experiences are:
- Structured and Progressive Students start with early exposure in Year 7 and build up to more substantial, hands-on experiences by Year 11.
- Active and Meaningful Young people don’t just observe; they take part in real tasks, receive feedback, and reflect on what they’ve learned.
- Inclusive and Accessible Opportunities are for every young person, regardless of background or ability, helping to close gaps in skills and aspiration.
- Relevant to Growth Sectors Employers are encouraged to offer experiences that connect to the local labour market, emerging industries, and future skills needs.
This approach ensures that young people leave school not just with qualifications, but with confidence, employability skills, and a clearer sense of direction.
The Role of Local Businesses
Local employers are at the heart of this vision. Your insight, time, and willingness to open your doors can inspire young people and help them develop the skills Leicester’s economy needs to thrive. Whether through site visits, short placements, virtual projects, mentoring, or a combination of these, you can make a real difference.Modern Work Experience also benefits your business. It’s a chance to:
- Spot and inspire future talent before they enter the workforce.
- Develop your staff through mentoring, supervision, and communication opportunities.
- Strengthen your reputation as a socially responsible employer and a champion of local young people.
How Leicestershire Cares Can Help
We know that organising placements can be time-consuming but you don’t have to do it alone. Leicestershire Cares want to support as much as possible and will:
- Liaise with local schools and colleges to match students to your business.
- Handle much of the administration.
- Support students with preparation before they arrive, and gather feedback afterwards.
- Help you design experiences that fit your operations while meeting the CEC’s quality expectations.
Our goal is to make it simple and rewarding for your business to get involved, so that together we can deliver work experience that truly changes lives.
Take Action Today
This is an exciting moment for Leicester’s schools, businesses, and communities. By working together, we can ensure every young person has access to the kind of workplace experiences that build skills, confidence, and ambition.
Join us in bringing the Modern Work Experience programme to life
Get in touch with Leicestershire Cares today to discuss how we can support you to take part. Together, we can open doors, raise aspirations, and help shape a stronger future for Leicester - for our young people, for our businesses, and for the city we call home.
email bella@leicestershirecares.co.uk for more information!