Our Work Experience Wednesdays provision is growing - and it’s making a real difference.

Due to increasing demand and the positive impact on our students, we are looking to partner with more local tradespeople, businesses, and industry professionals who can offer hands-on work experience opportunities.

This is your chance to inspire the next generation, share your skills, and support young people who learn best by doing.

What we’re looking for

We are inviting:

• Stonemasons, plumbers, carpenters, and all trades

• Local businesses and skilled individuals

• Professionals willing to support young people aged 14–16

To deliver:

• Two-hour weekly sessions

• Hands-on, practical activities

• Minimum 2-week blocks

• Wednesdays, 10:00am – 12:00pm

• Starting from Wednesday 22nd April

Sessions can take place at your workplace, site, or a suitable training environment.

About the programme

Work Experience Wednesdays give young people a real-world introduction to trade and construction environments through practical, skills-based learning.

The programme is designed for students who are practical learners - those who thrive outside of traditional classroom settings and benefit from hands-on experience.

Our aim is simple:
To help young people build confidence, independence, and employability skills, while showing them that careers in the trades offer purpose, progression, and pride.

Who it’s for

• Young people aged 14-16

• Referred through schools or local authorities

• Students who benefit from practical, real-world learning

• Those exploring futures in construction, trades, or vocational careers

How it works

• Delivered in blocks (minimum 2 weeks)

• Small groups of students supported by Bath Rugby Foundation staff

• Sessions focused on learning by doing

• Structured but flexible to suit your trade and environment

Example areas:

• Tool use and basic trade skills

• Measuring, building, or repair tasks

• Understanding site/workplace expectations

• Teamwork and communication on the job

• Problem-solving in real working environments

What students gain

• Hands-on experience in a real working environment

• Increased confidence and motivation

• Teamwork and communication skills

• Understanding of workplace expectations

• Insight into trade careers and pathways

Our approach

We work with young people who need a different approach to learning.

Our delivery is built on:

• High support, low consequence

• Strong relationships and clear expectations

• A focus on progress, not perfection

• Learning through experience, not just instruction

Bath Rugby Foundation staff are always present to support behaviour, engagement, and safeguarding - allowing trades people to focus on sharing their skills.

Safeguarding & support

• All sessions are fully supported by experienced Bath Rugby Foundation staff

• Risk assessments and safeguarding processes are in place

• We work closely with partners to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone involved

For schools: referring students

This provision is ideal for students who:

• Are disengaged from classroom learning

• Benefit from practical, vocational experiences

• Need support developing confidence, attendance, and employability skills

Outcomes for schools

• Improved engagement and attendance

• Real-world evidence for Ofsted and Local Authority reviews

• Contribution towards Gatsby Benchmarks

• Regular communication and progress updates

Get involved

Whether you’re a sole trader, established business, or organisation - your skills can make a lasting impact.

By offering even a short placement, you’ll help a young person take meaningful steps towards a brighter future.

Referrals & enquiries

To offer a placement, refer a student, or find out more, please contact:

Jonno Wood
Alternative Learning Hub Manager
[email protected]