We’re shortly going live with adverts for our 2026 Work Experience programme, but we need more placements to meet the high level of interest from local schools. Colleagues across all areas of the university are invited to get involved, whether in education and research, professional, or operational roles.
Work experience can play a vital role in shaping students’ future study and career choices especially for those who may not have existing networks or access to opportunities. Even a day or two can make a real difference, while helping showcase the wide range of roles that make the university a great place to work and our commitment to inclusivity and nurturing future talent.
Thank you to everyone who has already offered placements, your support helps make this programme possible and gives more young people the chance to explore their future.
- Placement dates: 29 June - 3 July 2026
- Who: Year 12/13 (or first year of college) students
- New (optional) pilot: 1–2 day Year 10 career taster, initially for family/friends of staff
Our programmes are designed to be department-led and student-driven. The Work Experience team provides the framework, resources and coordination, while the day-to-day experience is shaped by you and runs within your existing work. We couldn’t have achieved the success of recent years without your enthusiasm, support and willingness to host. With your continued involvement, we can grow these opportunities even further.
What’s new for 2026:
Inclusive advertising and shortlisting**
To widen participation and reduce barriers, we are introducing a more inclusive application and selection process:
- single combined advert listing all career pathways (students select their preferred area)
- flexible application formats, allowing written or voice-transcribed responses
- simplified scoring, with applications marked as suitable or unsuitable instead of using a 0–3 scoring scale.
- soft randomisation used when multiple suitable candidates are available, helping reduce unconscious bias and giving fairer access to students who may be neurodiverse, EAL or lower-confidence writers
This approach supports a more diverse applicant pool while maintaining departmental input and safeguarding suitability.
Rotation hosting model
We are also introducing the option for a shared rotation week, where students spend time across multiple teams within the same department. This supports hybrid working patterns, increases departmental capacity and gives students a broader understanding of roles and career pathways within their chosen area.
Our aim remains unchanged, to ensure every student receives a meaningful and engaging experience that builds confidence, develops workplace behaviours and supports informed career decisions.
Marcus Munafo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor said:
'Our structured approach allows school students - regardless of any personal connections - to access meaningful work experience that genuinely prepares them for the future. This benefits everyone: placement students gain confidence and career insight; we showcase the University as an inclusive employer; and we inspire potential future collaborators and colleagues. I’m looking forward to hearing which departments take part, and the impact these placements have on both placement students and our community.'
Please register your interest in supporting this important initiative using the MS form which includes options to indicate availability and hosting preferences.