Work experience is an important part of helping the next generation to develop the skills that businesses will need for future recruitment. A small business may feel that they don’t have much to offer a young person by way of work experience but given that over 90% of employees in the UK are employed by small and medium businesses it is worth giving it a go.
Of course, a well-structured plan and shorter work days for your student can help the young person to thrive and be less of a challenge for the business. We offer work experience to one student each year.
Last week, we had 15-year-old Rianne in our office for 3 days. She was an absolute delight, Here is her account of her work experience:
My time at Orchard Employment Law has been short, but sweet. I wouldn’t say I was particularly nervous in the lead up, but I did start to feel apprehensive as the start date approached. However, Jemma and Jeanette quickly alleviated any concerns I may have had. My work experience has only been 3 days, but I feel like I’ve been here for ever. Jemma is one the most knowledgeable people I have ever met, and Jeanette is so kind-hearted, welcoming, and helpful and I felt so comfortable in their care. Across my 3 days I have learnt more than I thought was possible, not just about employment law, but about what it takes to run a successful business. Prior to this experience, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in law, but had no knowledge of employment law, however now, I am most definitely going to look in to it for future reference.
The Orchard office is part of Dragon Co-Working, so not only did I get to speak with the Orchard team. I got to meet the other business using the space, and leam about what everyone does. Everyone who works here was so incredibly welcoming and made me feel really comfortable with the office. The past few days have taught me so many different skills as they have been filled with a range of tasks including reading tribunal bundles (all of which were incredibly thought provoking), ordering and sorting tribunal bundles and sitting in on calls with clients.
Throughout the duration of my time at Orchard, I have learnt so many new things, such as legal terminology, about the government, and the advice and legal support that can be provided to employers and employees. Both Jemma and Jeanette shared personal experiences as well, making it easier to understand what they do, in relation to real life.
I couldn’t ask for a better team of people to work with for the past three days and I am eternally grateful to Jemma and Jeanette for teaching me so much. Its always refreshing to see women in power and so inspirational and I can’t thank them enough. I was always treated with respect and as a professional, and was constantly asked how I feel about certain cases or what I think, which I really appreciated as it made me feel like I was genuinely part of the team.
Overall, my time at Orchard Employment Law has been so enjoyable, and I recommend them to any young person who is looking to pursue a career in law as they provide just the right tools to nurture and hone your skills, preparing you for the future.
Rianne