During a week of June, our entire Year 10 cohort stepped out of the classroom and into the world of work, taking on placements across a wide range of industries. From early years education to landscaping, dance schools to equestrian centres, retail shops to care homes – our pupils embraced the opportunity to explore potential career paths and gain invaluable real-world experience.

Staff from across the Academy had the privilege of visiting pupils at their placements, witnessing first-hand the professionalism, enthusiasm, and maturity they brought to their roles. It was a joy to see our students thriving in new environments, building confidence, and making meaningful contributions to their host organisations.

Work experience offers more than just a snapshot of working life – it allows pupils to trial industries they may one day pursue, helping them set clearer goals for the future. Whether they were leading activities with young children, assisting customers in busy shops, or supporting vulnerable individuals in care settings, our pupils demonstrated the values and skills we strive to instil every day.

A personal highlight for me was visiting Leishaa, who was placed with the dance company Moving Together. After my visit, I received this incredible message from the company’s Director, Emily Jackson:

“Leishaa has been amazing as a team member of Moving Together as part of her work experience! She assisted with over 55s classes in Loughborough, a Primary School after-school club at Willowbrook Academy, a full Bollywood-themed Discover Arts Award in a Day at Latimer Primary, and is helping project manage our School Collective show at De Montfort University today for 15 schools and 230 pupils!”

This is just one example of the impact our pupils have made this week. Their dedication, adaptability, and enthusiasm have been nothing short of inspiring.

A huge well done to all our Year 10 pupils for representing the Academy so brilliantly, and a heartfelt thank you to the staff and employers who made this week possible.