Traditional work experience still has value, but today’s students need more flexible, engaging, and relevant ways to explore the world of work.
Here’s how schools can embrace new models of work experience to better prepare learners for life after education.

What are innovative work experience models, and why do they matter?

Modern careers are evolving fast. Students need more than one week of shadowing; they need varied, purposeful experiences that develop skills, spark curiosity, and build confidence.

Innovative work experience models help schools:

• Reach more students with flexible opportunities
• Align experiences with curriculum and interests
• Meet Gatsby Benchmark 6 more effectively
• Build stronger partnerships with employers

At The Changing Education Group, we help schools adopt dynamic, compliant, and tech-enabled work experience solutions, without adding to staff workload.

What is a hybrid work experience?

Hybrid placements combine virtual and in-person experiences, giving students access to a wider range of employers, both locally and nationally.

Key benefits:

• More flexibility for students and employers
• Greater access to industries that aren’t available nearby
• Prepares students for the future of remote and hybrid work

How to implement:

• Partner with businesses that offer virtual tasks, meetings, or shadowing
• Use a digital platform to manage communication and progress tracking
• Combine on-site visits with online project work

Our platform supports hybrid placements with built-in tools for messaging, document sharing, and real-time feedback.

What is project-based work experience?

Instead of traditional observation, students work on real-world projects, contributing ideas, solving problems, and delivering outcomes.

Key benefits:

• Deepens engagement through hands-on learning
• Encourages teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking
• Provides tangible evidence of learning and impact

How to implement:

• Work with employers to scope short, achievable projects
• Encourage students to present their findings or outcomes
• Link projects to classroom topics or vocational learning

This model is ideal for students on T Levels, BTECs, or other applied pathways.

What is micro-work experience?

Micro-experiences are short, focused placements, typically lasting a few hours to a few days. They allow students to sample multiple sectors and roles without long-term commitment.

Key benefits:

• Fits around academic timetables and exams
• Supports students with other responsibilities
• Increases reach by offering more, smaller-scale opportunities

How to implement:

• Create a database of employers offering short-term experiences
• Use your platform to match students based on interest and availability
• Guide pre- and post-placement reflection

Micro-experiences are particularly effective for younger students or those exploring career options.

What is a mentorship-driven experience?

This model pairs students with professionals who provide one-to-one guidance, industry insight, and long-term support.

Key benefits:

• Builds meaningful connections and professional networks
• Offers personalised feedback and real-world advice
• Increases confidence and aspiration, especially for disadvantaged students

How to implement:

• Match students with mentors based on interests and goals
• Schedule regular virtual or in-person check-ins
• Integrate mentorship with career planning sessions

We help schools build structured mentorship programmes, backed by safeguarding, resources, and impact tracking.

How can your school implement these models effectively?

Innovation doesn’t need to mean complexity. With the right tools and support, schools can diversify their offer without increasing workload.

Steps to get started:

1. Assess student interests and aspirations
Use surveys or 1:1 conversations to understand what students need.

2. Build partnerships with local and national employers
Tap into sectors relevant to your curriculum and community.

3. Leverage a work experience platform
Manage placements, feedback, and compliance in one place.

4. Offer staff and student training
Prepare everyone involved with clear guidance and expectations.

The Changing Education Group offers a complete work experience suite, including hybrid, project-based, and mentorship tools, all built to save time and deliver results.

Ready to Future-Proof Your Work Experience Offer?

At The Changing Education Group, we help schools implement innovative, compliant, and student-led work experience models that make a real difference.

Whether you’re:

• Delivering T Levels
• Meeting Gatsby Benchmarks
• Or simply trying to reach more students with flexible options

We’re here to help.

Book a demo today to explore how our platform and delivery team can support your goals.

FAQs

1. What’s the best model for Year 10 or 11 students?
Project-based or hybrid placements work well at this stage, offering structure, engagement, and flexibility.

2. Can innovative models support T-Level delivery?
Yes. Project and hybrid experiences align well with T-Level industry placements, helping meet employer requirements.

3. Are virtual or hybrid models still Gatsby compliant?
Absolutely, as long as they offer meaningful engagement with employers, they meet Gatsby Benchmark 6.

4. How can schools manage multiple placement types at once?
With a digital platform like ours, all models can be tracked, managed, and assessed in one place.

5. Do you offer support in building employer relationships?
Yes, we handle employer engagement, compliance, and placement coordination on your behalf.