Work Experience Week 2026

A fantastic Work Experience Week!

We are delighted to celebrate another highly successful Year 10 Work Experience Week, with students representing Chailey School exceptionally well across a wide range of placements in the local community.

Throughout the week, students gained valuable experience in industries including education, construction, healthcare, visitor attractions, business and community organisations. They embraced new challenges with enthusiasm, professionalism and a genuine willingness to learn, developing important employability skills and gaining insight into a variety of career pathways.

Feedback from employers was overwhelmingly positive. Many praised our students' maturity, excellent behaviour, confidence and positive attitudes, describing them as a credit to both themselves and the school. One employer described a Chailey student as "the most amazing student", while another member of the public took the time to contact the school after a particularly positive interaction with a student, commenting on his politeness and describing him as a fantastic ambassador for Chailey School.

Several students who completed placements in local primary schools received excellent feedback for supporting staff and younger pupils during a busy Sports Day event. Their initiative, teamwork and ability to build positive relationships were particularly highlighted.

Work experience provides an invaluable opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, develop confidence and resilience, and begin to make informed decisions about their future careers. It was wonderful to see so many students making the most of the experience and leaving such a positive impression on their employers.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the businesses and organisations that supported our students this year. Their commitment to providing meaningful workplace experiences plays a vital role in preparing our young people for life beyond school.

We are incredibly proud of every student who took part and the way they demonstrated the Chailey Values throughout the week.

Looking ahead: Work Experience Week for our current Year 9 students will take place from 28 June to 2 July 2027. Parents and students will receive information about our launch event in November, although we encourage students to begin exploring potential placements and career interests well in advance.

Well done, Year 10 – you have done yourselves and Chailey School proud! Certificates have been uploaded to Unifrog and reward points given!

Ms Wickens

Careers & Work-Related Learning Coordinator