What do we do?

At Wightwick Hall School, we offer meaningful and personalised opportunities for students to engage in real workplace experiences that support their independence, confidence and Preparation for Adulthood outcomes. Our Work Experience and Supported Internship pathways help students explore interests, develop employability skills and make informed choices about their future.

Work Experience at Wightwick Hall School

From Year 11 onwards, students take part in our structured Work Experience programme. Each learner chooses an area of employment that interests them and completes a placement linked to that sector. This choice can change as students explore different careers, and placements are adapted to reflect these developing aspirations.

Work Experience helps students to:

• Develop social skills with both familiar and unfamiliar adults
• Understand the expectations and pressures of a real workplace
• Explore whether a particular sector is suited to their future goals
• Build confidence, resilience and a sense of responsibility as an employee

If a placement is successful, students may be offered an extended placement such as attending one day per week alongside their Post 16 timetable. These extended opportunities deepen understanding of the sector and strengthen employability skills.

Supported Internships

Students in their final year of education may be eligible for a Supported Internship. This is a structured programme designed to bridge the gap between education and employment.

Supported Internships involve:

• Two days per week in school, completing qualifications in English, maths and vocational subjects
• Three days per week in a work placement, developing practical skills linked to real job roles
• A personalised set of termly targets, aligned with EHCP outcomes, workplace expectations and adult independence
• A dedicated mentor, who acts as the link between the student, their family and the employer

Students receive ongoing coaching, workplace support and feedback to help them succeed in their role and develop greater independence.

If the placement is successful, students may be offered paid employment. If not, our team supports them to transition into further education, training or alternative employment pathways.

Positive Outcomes

Several students who have completed Work Experience and Supported Internships have gone on to secure employment through their placements. These opportunities form a key part of our Preparation for Adulthood curriculum, helping students move confidently into adult life with the skills, experience and independence they need.