One hundred Year 10 students secured work placements across Erewash and spent a week learning about all aspects of jobs that they are interested in.
Nat Lane, 15, was given the opportunity to broadcast live on the radio during his work experience at Erewash Sound.
He said: “I have always wanted to be a presenter on a radio station so I emailed Erewash Sound to ask about work experience and they offered me a place.
“I did some audio editing and I also broadcast live on the radio. They just said if I wanted to I could and I felt confident so I did. I did a few different reports about Ed Sheeran, fishing, anime and being good friends. The presenter asked me who my good friends were. I was a bit nervous but it was fine.
“The whole experience was brilliant and really interesting. I would like to do the training so that I can learn how to use all of the radio equipment.”
Ksenia Kudron, 15, secured a placement at Earls Hair and Beauty in Ilkeston.
She said: “I’ve always wanted to be a hairdresser; when I was little I was always doing hair. When I was at Earls I was shampooing, doing plaits and helping to tidy up. I really enjoyed it and there’s now the possibility of me getting a Saturday job there which is great. It’s definitely something I would look into as a career.”
Luca Selwood, 14, spent a week at Deda dance centre in Derby.
She said: “I did all sorts when I was there. I worked in the box office and I saw a show technical rehearsal so I learnt all about how they set up for a show. I also helped out at a dance show called Interface so I was helping the performers to get onto the stage, it was really good. I also auditioned for a circus skills class which I will be going to every Saturday which will involve dance and aerial work. Overall, it was a great experience.”
Dave Jenkins, teacher at OIEA who oversaw the work experience initiative, said: “Work experience week provides our students with an invaluable opportunity to connect with local employers and find out about what they do and how they operate. It is a chance for students to discover more about themselves and may even open a few doors for them.
“So many of the students have positive experiences that change their perceptions about the world of work. We are always grateful for the fantastic opportunities provided by the many local businesses that support us.”
