Skills for Employability Work Placement Information
Introduction
The Skills for Employability Pathway at Woolston College is designed to support students aged 16–19 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) as they prepare for the world of work. The pathway focuses on developing the essential skills that employers value most, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, reliability, and independence.
Alongside classroom learning, students have the opportunity to take part in a structured work placement. This experience allows them to apply what they have learned in a real workplace, gain confidence in new settings, and explore different career options. With guidance and support from staff and employers, students gradually build their skills, independence, and understanding of workplace expectations.
The programme is an important step towards helping young people progress into further training, supported internships, apprenticeships, or employment. By combining practical work experience with the development of key employability skills, the Skills for Employability Pathway gives students the tools they need to take their next steps with confidence.
To begin their work placement, students follow a series of guided steps that help them prepare, build confidence, and ensure they are ready to succeed in the workplace.
Pre Placement
Before starting a work placement, students spend time exploring their own skills, strengths, likes, and dislikes. They also focus on developing their personal presentation, such as posture, appearance, and positive personal traits, so they feel confident and professional when meeting employers.
Each student completes a vocational profile and, with support from college staff, creates an action plan that sets out SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) targets to work on during their placement.
As part of their preparation, students are also given the chance to visit a number of workplace providers that the college works with. These visits allow them to see different environments, ask questions, and get a feel for what each setting is like. Afterwards, students share feedback about the types of placements they would like to try. This thorough preparation ensures that each student is matched to a placement that suits their abilities and interests, giving them the best chance to succeed and enjoy their experience.
During Placement
While on placement, students put their skills into practice in a real work environment. They learn how to follow workplace routines, communicate with colleagues, and complete tasks with increasing independence. Staff from the college who support students are trained job coaches, meaning they can provide the right level of guidance, encouragement, and tailored support in the workplace. Students also complete a work placement log, which allows them to record the tasks they have undertaken, reflect on their progress, and keep track of the new skills they are developing. With professional coaching, regular reflection, and the guidance of employers, students gain valuable experience, build confidence, and discover new strengths that can prepare them for future opportunities.
Post-Placement
After completing their placement, students reflect on what they have learned and the progress they have made. They review their work placement log with staff, which helps them to identify the tasks they enjoyed, the skills they have developed, and areas they may wish to improve further. Employers also provide feedback, giving students recognition for their efforts and highlighting their strengths in a real-world context. This reflection and feedback process supports students in planning their next steps, whether that is moving on to further training, a supported internship, or employment, with a clearer understanding of their abilities and goals.
Work Placement Providers
Woolston is proud to collaborate with a range of local employers to offer valuable work placement opportunities to students. These placements help learners gain real-world experience across various sectors. Current partners include:
- YMCA Charity Shop, Birchwood
Sector: Retail / Charity
Students gain experience in customer service, stock management, and community engagement.
- Keates House Care Home, Lymm
Sector: Health and Social Care
Learners support staff in providing care and companionship to residents, learning about safeguarding and personal care.
- Park Royal Hotel and Spa, Stretton
Sector: Hospitality and Leisure
Placements involve roles in housekeeping, front-of-house, and spa services, offering insight into hotel operations and guest services.
Calling All Employers
We are always looking to expand our network of supportive employers across a wide range of sectors. If you or your organisation would be interested in offering a work placement opportunity to one of our young people, we would love to hear from you. Partnering with us not only supports the development of future talent but also brings fresh energy and perspective into your workplace. Please Contact Vickie Whitehead, Careers and Employability Lead at Woolston College.
