From Monday, 27th April to Friday, 1st May, Risedale School held its annual Work Experience Week. While many Year 10 pupils were out in the community at various external placements, the school remained a hive of activity for those participating in our on-site Alternative Work Experience programme.

This structured week was designed to ensure that every pupil had the opportunity to develop professional skills, meet industry experts, and prepare for life after Risedale.

A Week of Discovery and Hands-On Learning

Monday: Exploring Travel and Tourism

The week began with an immersive session led by representatives from Darlington College. Pupils explored the Travel and Tourism industry, gaining a practical understanding of various roles. The day was highlighted by cabin crew safety drills, where Branden Mallinson and Lily Crowcroft were specially recognised by Careers Leader Mrs Porritt for their mastery of the procedures. Even staff members, Mr Lawson and Mrs Niblett, joined in the fun, practising safety demonstrations alongside the pupils.

Tuesday: Building Resilience and Transferable Skills

Careers Advisor Mrs Harris led a session focused on identifying and developing transferable skills. Through various team-building activities, pupils tested their communication, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
Year 10 Pupil Support Manager Mrs Niblett was incredibly impressed by the group's attitude, noting that the pupils gave their all to every task. Standout mentions for their exceptional effort included:

• Emily Furey, for giving 100% to every task.
• Ethan Tress, for being one of the most engaged and involved participants.
• Daisy Kelso, for demonstrating great resilience and determination to succeed.

Wednesday: Mastering the Trades

The school hall was transformed into a bustling trade fair as Amey Defence Services, alongside partners like CLC and Tivoli Group, hosted a hands-on careers hub. Pupils gained practical experience in various trades, including plumbing, electrical work, and grounds maintenance. A particular highlight was the impressive plastering skills shown by Teighan Saah-Kenne.

It was also lovely to catch up with ex-pupils Dan and Tyler, who returned to Risedale as they complete their apprenticeships with CLC. Their success served as a fantastic inspiration for our current Year 10s.

While the hall was busy, we also caught up with Harry O'Donoghue, Ollie Woodhouse, and Theo-Tyler Fort, who represented the school excellently while on their external placement with Amey, exploring industry roles and visiting site projects like Bramble Woods.

Thursday: Inspiring Future Choices

On Thursday, the school welcomed Molly, Emily, and Abbie from York St John’s Inspiring Choices. They shared valuable insights regarding future educational paths and the wide array of opportunities available to pupils after leaving Risedale, helping them visualise their next steps.

Friday: Financial Literacy and Workplace Workshops

The week concluded with an engaging workshop led by representatives from Newcastle Building Society. This final session provided a practical look at financial skills and workplace expectations, rounding off a comprehensive week of preparation for the adult world.

Celebrating Hard Work and Positive Attitudes

As the programme drew to a close, two pupils were selected for special praise for their "100% effort" and positive engagement with every single provider throughout the week. 
Pupil Support Manager, Mrs Niblett, selected Caelyn Robinson and Ethan Tress as her two stars of the programme.

She also wanted to extend a huge "well done" to the following pupils who attended every session and received wonderful feedback for their engagement.

Whether out in the community on external placements or taking part in our intensive school-based programme, our Year 10 pupils have shown great character this week. You have done yourselves and Risedale proud!

A Message from Mrs Porritt

Careers Leader Helen Porritt would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the employers who have hosted our pupils on external placements this week. Your support is invaluable in helping our pupils navigate their future paths.

A huge thank you also goes to those who gave up their time to provide such high-quality sessions for our Alternative Work Experience programme:

• Darlington College
• Inspiring Choices (York St John University)
• Mrs T Harris (Careers Adviser)
• AMEY Defence Services
• Tivoli Group
• CLC Group
• Newcastle Building Society

For more information on our Careers, Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) programme, please CLICK HERE.

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