Work Experience in Cornwall
Take your first step towards a career
Work experience is a great way to explore your career options, build new skills and gain confidence in the workplace.
Whether you're looking for your first job, planning your next step, or want to find out what it's really like to work in a particular industry, work experience can help. It gives you the chance to learn from employers, develop employability skills and gain valuable experience for your CV.
The experience you gain now could help open the door to future jobs, apprenticeships, further education or training.
Finding work experience opportunities
Many work experience opportunities are arranged directly with employers. This means you may need to approach employers yourself.
Start by speaking to people who may be able to help, including:
- School or college work experience coordinators
- Teachers and lecturers
- Careers advisers
- Jobcentre work coaches
- Friends and family
You may also be able to gain work experience with a family business, provided the business has the appropriate insurance in place.
Some employers advertise work experience placements on their websites. It's worth checking local employers in Cornwall as well as larger national organisations.
When contacting employers:
- Explain why you are interested in their business
- Tell them what type of work experience you are looking for
- Include your CV if you have one
- Send a short email or cover letter, or visit in person where appropriate
A positive approach can often uncover opportunities that are not formally advertised.
Virtual Work Experience
Not all work experience takes place in a workplace. Virtual work experience allows you to learn remotely using a computer, tablet or other device with an internet connection.
Online work experience can help you:
- Explore different careers and industries
- Learn directly from employers
- Develop workplace skills
- Gain experience that can support future job applications
Websites such as Springpod and Speakers for Schools offer free virtual work experience opportunities with a range of employers across the UK.
Virtual work experience can be a flexible way to discover new careers and find out where your interests and talents could take you.
Jobcentre Plus
If you’re getting Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or Universal Credit, you can get work experience through Jobcentre Plus.
Companies in Cornwall to try contacting for work experience
Still in education?
What is work experience?
Work experience gives you a chance to learn about working life and develop skills that employers value. It is usually unpaid and takes place over a short period of time. There are different types of work experience:Work shadowing
Spend time in a workplace watching experienced staff carry out their day-to-day roles. This can help you understand what a job involves and whether it could be right for you.Work activities, tasks or projects
Take part in practical work and try out real workplace tasks. This is a great way to build skills, gain confidence and experience a particular industry.Work trials
A work trial gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills in a workplace. It can help an employer decide whether you are a good fit for a role. It also gives you the chance to find out if the job and organisation are right for you.Build your CV
Whatever type of work experience you choose, it can help you explore career options, build your CV and take a positive step towards employment.Why work experience matters
Work experience can help you take the next step towards a job, apprenticeship or further training. It gives you the chance to:
- Explore careers and discover the types of work you enjoy
- Build workplace skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving
- Gain industry insight and learn what a job is really like
- Grow your confidence through real-world experience
- Meet employers and make new connections
- Strengthen your CV and stand out to future employers
Whether you're looking for your first job or planning your future career, work experience can help you discover what interests you, build confidence and gain valuable skills for the workplace.
Need help writing your CV?
Want to find out more about volunteering?
Volunteering is a great way to develop new skills, gain experience and give back to your community. Whether you're looking to build your CV, explore career options or meet new people, volunteering can help you take a positive step towards your goals.