Work Experience and Internships

Why they matter

• Offer “test-drives” of career ideas, particularly for students and graduates.
• Provide concrete examples for CVs and interviews.

Key sites

• Prospects – Work experience and internships – detailed guidance and links. Prospects+1
• TargetJobs – Internships and placements – searchable database across sectors. TargetJobs+1

Approaching employers for shadowing

• Start local: small businesses, charities, schools, clinics, trades.
• Suggest 1–3 days of unpaid observation rather than long placements.
• Provide a short CV plus a tailored email explaining:
  • What they’re studying or their background.
  • Why they’re interested in that sector.
  • What they’re asking for (e.g. “Can I shadow someone in your team for one day?”).