Extended placements in the workplace offer a real opportunity for young people to change their perceptions of their abilities, boost their confidence and self-esteem and prepare them for their next steps to employability. Schools see the added benefits to these young people in terms of improved attendance, attitude, interest, and their future prospects for progression.

If the school believes that a student will benefit from practical experience in the workplace, MEBP will arrange a placement, after discussion and agreement with the school staff. Extended placements succeed through close collaboration between the student, parent/carer, school, employer and MEBP.

Placements vary, usually one day a week for six weeks. After this a review meeting will take place with all parties and the placement will be extended, subject to approval from all. The young person’s progress will be discussed and new targets set where appropriate. Subsequent review meetings take place every six to eight weeks. Successful students continue with their hosts, for up to a year or more, and can earn bronze, silver and gold awards.

The extended placement log book, which supports the accreditation, is available to each student. This provides a simple means of demonstrating progress on a weekly basis. The supporting teacher should complete the section in the log book at an in-school review after each day in the workplace.

For full details contact toni@mebp.org