This guide is for school staff who have a responsiblity for organising Key Stage 4 work experience. It includes an overview of key issues and a suggested annual cycle for administrative processes. It will be particularly useful for staff who are new to this role. Whilst many details are a matter of local agreement, this guide constitutes a sound basis of best practice on which to build your own school manual for managing work experience.

“Going for gold” is a classroom topic about how to plan for short and long term goals. It helps students to understand that planning for their goals is an important step in achieving them, and that breaking down a long term goal into smaller steps will help to keep them on track and make their more complex goals achievable. Students will try out a goal planning exercise and reflect on how this could be useful to them in the future. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

An attractive, brand new, high quality resource designed to help prepare learners for the exam period. If you teach an exam year, or learners embarking on linear A Levels or GCSEs this is of particular interest to you. It can also benefit students in a wide range of settings who need to work towards a specific goal. ‘Feel Confident With Exams’ is a workbook that focuses on developing confidence by planning to deal with stress! Confidence is about dealing with set backs and developing personal resilience and a lack of these abilities can leave learners at risk of poor performance which does not reflect their ability. In this workbook learners will explore their own ideas about self-confidence, dealing with stress and preparing for exams, and they will try out some strategies for dealing with exam nerves before they happen. Activities include recognising your stress triggers, planning to deal with stress, exam preparation, stopping negative thoughts, and the value of a healthy lifestyle to beat stress. The workbook is 18 x A4 pages in PDF format, with engaging and colourful text and activities (can be copied within one institution). It is self-contained and can be used by learners on their own or as part of a tutorial or study group. It includes clear learning aims, space for reflection and opportunities for discussion as well as self-directed learning. All activities can be completed in the book. It can be used alone or with an accompanying presentation, available separately. Feel Confident With Exams is one of a set of four workbooks and presentations that make up the Plan for Success suite of exam preparation. This workbook will allow you to maximise the value of tutor time or as part of a wider programme of study skills, exam preparation or PSHE.

“Decisions decisions” is a self-contained classroom topic about what influences our decisions – consciously and subconsciously. Young people often feel that they have little or no control over decisions that affect their lives which can lead to stress. It is vital that they are supported to develop the confidence to make rational decisions in their everyday lives and for their future career planning. Students will reflect on decisions they have made in the past, and become more aware of what influences them when they face choices. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add visual appeal.

“Lifestyle choices” is a self-contained classroom topic that introduces the idea of self-regulation or applying limits to your own behaviour and asks students to consider how some poor lifestyle choices could affect their ability to work. The topic focuses on two aspects of self-regulation – diet and substance use. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“My dream job” is a self-contained classroom topic that encourages students to think about the values they associate with certain careers and how these relate to their own goals and aspirations. Finding a job role that fits our values is a key aspect of being happy and fulfilled at work. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add visual appeal.

“Artificial Intelligence” is a classroom topic about how skills for work are changing in a world of rapidly expanding technology. We all use multiple devices to manage our social lives and entertain ourselves, but our homes and workplaces are also going to see rapid change over the next few years. In this topic students will debate what intelligence and artificial intelligence mean to them, what skills may or may not be replaced by A.I. devices and how this could impact on the future of work. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Image therapy” is a self-contained classroom topic that helps students to build a positive self-image. In a supportive environment, students are asked to take part in three different activities that involve giving and receiving positive feedback and then describe this experience. The activities in this topic will help to build confidence and self-esteem which are important factors in good decisions making including making career plans. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Magnificent mock interviews” is a lesson and preparation pack for students who need to take part in simulated interviews. Getting feedback on a mock interview can help students to know what to expect in a real interview situation. The interview can be arranged for every student at a time to suit them; however holding a group introduction and discussion is an effective way of helping students to prepare. This topic will need to be completed over more than one session in order to carry out preparation, interviews and feedback sessions. Briefing notes and feedback sheets have been included for students and interviewer(s), and a preparation checklist for the organiser. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Better letters” is a self-contained classroom topic about how to write a letter of application for a job. An introductory letter is your first opportunity to make a good impression on an employer, whether it is on paper or an email. This topic is about how to write an effective supporting letter to accompany a job application, highlighting your strengths and avoiding some common pitfalls. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Who’s the boss” is a classroom topic about the role of the team leader. Students will discuss why teams need leadership and what they think leadership qualities are. They will learn that there is no one fixed model but a good leader will need to be responsive to other people, taking responsibility but respecting the skills and opinions of others. Students will consider how the role of the team leader evolves with a team as they work together, and they will think about their own potential leadership style. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“My big ambition” is a self-contained classroom topic with activities that are designed to help students to raise their aspirations and clarify their hopes and dreams which can become goals. Exploring this topic will also help students to realise that they have the resources they need to be happy and successful if they have self-belief and determination. The activities in this topic draw on some basic principles of neuro-linguistic programming such as visualising success and feeling positive about what you have achieved already. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“My pathway to the future” is a self-contained classroom topic that will help students approaching the key transition age of 16 to prepare for the range of pathways available to them. They will focus on four options: 6th form college, full time FE College, a job with training or an Apprenticeship. Students will also explore four aspects of decisions making (personal, academic, emotional and financial) in relation to their options, which will help them to make an informed decision about their next step. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“What kind of person am I?” is a self-contained classroom topic for students from KS3 that introduces them to exploring personal values and how these can impact on life and career choices. It supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Students will discuss what personal values are and how these could affect choices and behaviour. They will also gain confidence and self-esteem by identifying some of their own positive values . Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a set of instructions, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities making up an extended lesson plan. The plan includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add interest.

“The customer is always right” is a complete classroom topic that helps students to understand what customer service is and why it matters. Customer service is a highly valued skill at work. In this topic students will consider occasions when they feel they have been treated well or poorly in a customer service situation and how this affected their opinion of the organisation. They will identify some characteristics of good and bad service and reflect on ow they could develop good customer awareness themselves. This topic includes one small scale research activity that requires internet access (other activities are included which do not require internet access). This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Have you got what it takes?” is a classroom topic that introduces students to discussion about enterprise skills or what it means to be enterprising. It will help them to explore why being enterprising is not just about entrepreneurship or running a business, although people with these skills are often entrepreneurial as well. Being enterprising also means being creative and managing risk, which are useful skills in many roles. Students will think about how they can develop their own skills in this area through other activities that they may be involved in. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“My career path” is a self-contained classroom topic that helps students to understand that developing their careers is a process of constant change. Not all career plans work out as you expect; change is to be expected and can be managed in a positive way. The activities will help them to know how to deal with planned and unplanned changes and to overcome the fear that may arise from unexpected barriers or having to manage expectations. (Internet access is required for one small optional activity). This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Can you communicate well” is a self-contained classroom topic about two vital aspects of communication: speaking and listening. There are 2 parts to communication: What we send ... and what is received (seen or heard). It is vital that students understand that developing effective speaking and listening are skills will not only get their point across but help them to learn to be good negotiators, a highly valued quality in many job roles. The activities in this topic include some role play involving selective listening and interpreting body language while we speak or listen to others. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 4 but can be used with a range of groups depending on their needs and abilities, and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes modern and striking imagery to appeal to young adult learners.

“Interview me” is a self-contained classroom topic which explores image. The earlier students understand the significance of the image they portray, the more this impacts positively on their personal development including their self-confidence and self-esteem. This topic helps students to understand why the image they portray in a competitive situation such as an interview is important and why they need to differentiate between the image they portray with friends or family from a more formal setting. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add visual appeal.

“Help me!” is a self-contained classroom topic which helps students to identify how they can gain useful information about careers and job roles from their own personal network in addition to more formal sources. They will also consider how people at work are grouped into networks or teams, and that all job roles are to some extent interrelated. This will help them in the early stages of career planning and learning about the world of work. This topic supports the learning outcomes in the Association for Careers Education and Guidance (ACEG) framework for career and work-related learning at Key Stage 3 and provides good evidence of lesson planning. Two files are included with this topic. The first file is a lesson plan, worksheets and suggested running order for the activities. The lesson plan also includes differentiated learning goals, reflective questions and a “before and after” review of learning relating to this topic. The second file is a slide show presentation which can be used with a whiteboard or pc/laptop and projector, to add structure to the lesson for students. The slideshow has the same running order as the lesson plan, and includes engaging and high quality images to add visual appeal.