​Work placements are an opportunity for young people to become familiar with working in a professional workplace, while also helping them learn about and understand the variety of jobs that are available in Shetland.

Work placements can help young people identify the sorts of jobs they may – or may not – be interested in and can help them make informed choices about their future. This includes what subjects they should study at school, or identifying the available pathways into a career such as apprenticeships or further and higher education qualifications.

Undertaking a work placement will also help young people develop transferable skills which will benefit them in whatever job they choose in the future.

work placement guides

To support employers, young people and their parents in this journey, three downloadable booklets have been developed to help explain the different kinds of work placements on offer in Shetland and help everyone get the most out of the experience. 

GUIDE FOR EMPLOYERS

GUIDE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

GUIDE FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS

Employers can also find more general guidance on offering work placements to young people on the Work It website.

Work placement database

Shetland Islands Council's School Work Experience Co-ordinator, Emily Van Tonder, holds a database of local employers who have been approved to undertake a work placement. This database details the different employers and types of placement they can support.

To find out the latest opportunities in Shetland, speak to your pupil support teacher or email Emily Van Tonder – emily.vantonder@shetland.gov.uk

risk assessment template

Every employer who is on the approved database will have been subject to a health and safety and risk assessment check before being approved to take on a placement. Employers in medium or high risk environments may need to carry out an induction with the young person at the start of the placement to explain the risks and how they are controlled.

We appreciate that many employers may already have an appropriate risk assessment process in place, but if you do not this template has been developed to assist you.

DOWNLOAD RISK ASSESSMENT TEMPLATE

SUPPORTED WORK EXPERIENCE & PLACEMENTS
In Shetland we have a number of services that support people into employment, either through structured programmes or through tailor-made support to fit the individual person's needs. DYW are pleased to support young people through these programmes to develop their skills and confidence and to be better equipped to enter the world of work.  To find out more, please click on the buttons below.

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MOVING ON

PROJECT SEARCH

EMPLOYABILITY PATHWAY