Work Experience

The work experience programme is able to offer experience within real work situations with appropriate levels of support through work based training, internal and external work experience placements.

Many students undertake a period of work-based training, which is provided by the College departments, including Joinery, Derwen Estates and Derwen Enterprises' Sales. Work based training can also be within the local community. Work-based training sessions take place away from the student's main department, but still work towards the individual objectives of the main department.

Internal work experience placements are in the learner's main department, offering a stepping stone to external work experience where appropriate.

Work-based training and internal work experience can lead to external placements arranged by the Placement Officer, either in the Oswestry locality or in their home area. Those students who undertake periods of work experience out of College will have completed the Foundation Certificate of Health and Safety in the Workplace and, if applicable, the Food Safety Certificate.

The Placement Officer has well-established contacts with more than fifty providers of work experience in Oswestry and the surrounding area. Local placements have been arranged covering a wide range of environments, including Sainsbury's, Woolworth, Wetherspoons, Co-op, local libraries, catering establishments and council grounds' maintenance. Students have also gained work experience in more unusual locations, such as the Park Hall Working Farm and Museum and Chirk Fishery.

If a student wishes to participate in work experience in their home area, the Placement Officer will liaise with the student's Connexions or Careers Wales advisor to assess feasibility and make the necessary arrangements. This is frequently arranged to take place during the College vacations.