First Time in a Generation: Uplands Academy Reintroduces Work Experience  

For the first time in almost twenty years, Uplands Academy has reintroduced work experience, marking a significant milestone for the school and its students.

Our Year 11 students recently took part in a voluntary work experience week as part of a new initiative at Uplands Academy. We are delighted that 119 students successfully completed placements with over 100 fantastic businesses and organisations across East Sussex, Kent and London. Students gained experience across a wide range of sectors, including law, teaching, animal care, construction, finance, heritage mechanics, hospitality and engineering. 

Before beginning their placements, each student took part in a one-to-one careers interview with a member of staff to help identify their interests and long-term aspirations. This ensured that every young person was matched with a placement that supported their goals and provided meaningful insight into the world of work. 

Mrs Harrison, Careers Advisor & Work Experience Coordinator, commented: 
“At Uplands Academy, we recognise the vitally important role that work experience plays in supporting young people to define their career path and preparing them for the world of work. During the week, I had the chance to visit many of the students, witnessing first-hand how they applied key soft skills and networked with professionals. These experiences will now strengthen their CVs, personal statements and future career aspirations.” 

We extend our sincere thanks to all the employers who generously hosted our students and contributed to their professional growth. We were delighted to receive such positive feedback about their conduct, attitude and enthusiasm. 

Alfred, who completed his placement at Pondakoi Pets & Aquatics, impressed his employer with his polite manner, strong work ethic and willingness to take on any task. He was described as “a real credit to Uplands and a pleasure to have for the week.” 

Noah made an outstanding impression during his placement at Deutsche Bank in Moorgate, with staff describing him as “a credit to Uplands and his family”. Based within the bank’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) office, the central function of the investment bank, Noah was given a valuable insight into how a global financial organisation operates. During the week, he met with the senior leader responsible for liaising with government on new legislation, as well as the Business Continuity Management team, gaining first‑hand understanding of risk, regulation and operational resilience. Noah also observed large‑scale professional working practices, including sitting in on a conference call with over 50 participants, and met with the Head of Brand. With a clear aspiration to pursue a career in sourcing, Noah was invited to work on a presentation focused on procurement within the bank, providing him with a meaningful opportunity to apply his interests in a real‑world context.  

Alex excelled at Stevens Farm, demonstrating enthusiasm, focus and a consistently high standard of work. His professionalism and eagerness to learn were so strong that he has been invited to return alongside his studies, a testament to his promising future in agriculture. 

Lucie and Grace received praise from the team at Rusthall Lodge Care Home for their kindness, enthusiasm and respectful approach when supporting residents. They contributed to a range of activities and made a genuinely positive impression on both staff and residents. 

Equally impressive were the students who remained in school throughout the week. They gained valuable insight into local careers and the skills required, supported lessons with real maturity, and perhaps most excitingly, helped break ground on our new horticultural project, which will be enjoyed by students for years to come. 

Mr Cunningham, Assistant Headteacher and Careers Lead, reflected on the week: “Anyone who remembers their own work experience week with a hint of cynicism need only spend five minutes with one of our Year 11 students to feel differently. As a semi‑rural school, access to the wider world of work is not always straightforward for our young people, and to see them return this week genuinely enriched by their placements has been both humbling and inspiring. Many students have come away with a renewed determination ahead of this summer’s exams, a clearer sense of direction for the future, and a strengthened drive to succeed. In a world that can often feel chaotic, it is our young people and their futures that keep us grounded, make us proud, and point us all toward a brighter tomorrow. Well done, Year 11!” 

As a school, we are proud to work closely with businesses and organisations to provide opportunities for students and welcome the opportunity to develop partnerships. If your organisation is interested in participating in our work experience programme in the future, please contact Mrs Harrison at lharrison@uplands-academy.org.