Inclusive Workplace Visits

This year, we piloted a programme of workplace visits for our SEND provisions and mainstream provisions with high numbers of SEND students. These visits were designed to provide meaningful experiences of workplaces and interactions with employers. Our delivery partner Ductu sourced inclusive employers who provided accessible, engaging opportunities for students to really bring to life what the workplace is like.

AIMS

Enhance Career Awareness:
The pilot introduced SEND students to various career paths and industries through workplace visits, interactive challenges, and employer interactions.
Promote Inclusivity:
To create and support a level playing field for all students, ensuring that SEND students have equal access to opportunities and experiences to help them succeed in the workplace.
Develop Essential Skills:
By participating in activities and interacting with employers, students can develop essential skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are crucial for future employment.
Improve Employability:
To support students to be “recruit-ready” by providing them with the necessary skills and experience to transition into paid employment after school.
Connect Schools and Employers:
Bridge the gap for schools to connect with national employers and organise meaningful workplace experiences for their students.
Address Gatsby Benchmarks:
The programme was designed to help schools meet Gatsby Benchmarks 5 & 6, which focus on encounters with employers and experiences of the workplace.

OUTCOMES

• Opportunities were offered to all of SEND schools and colleges across West Sussex, Brighton and Hove. We also invited local mainstream schools with high numbers of SEND students.
• 10 provisions signed up.
• 64 students attended visits.
• Positive feedback on visits from all attending schools and colleges.