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| Work Experience |
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In most schools children are encouraged to take two weeks' work experience in year 10 or 11 (the GCSE or Standard years). The idea is to give them an insight into what the world of work is like. It may also help them to decide whether they want to pursue a certain career when they leave school, and to find out what qualifications they will need to do so. It will also look good on their CV. There is usually a teacher in your child's school responsible for liasing with local business and work places and organising work placements. If your child is interested in working with music they could aim to make this their work experience.
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Work experience worked wonders with my son. It gave him so much confidence in himself, and his capabilities. |
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| Michael Flood, Parent |
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I think it is important to get work experience, and getting active hands-on experience - for example applying to the local radio station and local record companies. |
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| David Laub, Label Manager, Wordplay |
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| TOP Tips |
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- As music-related careers are an attractive option competition for work placements can be fierce, so plan ahead
- There are thousands of record companies all over the UK - and hundreds of other music-related companies too. Try to find out what's available locally and ask advice from your child's school.
- It helps if your child has thought about why they want to work in a particular workplace, and can come up with good reasons, if asked
- It also helps if your child has done their homework about the company they are aiming for. If it is a record company for instance, have they listened to any of their work? They may have a website where you can find out more.
- Your child is unlikely to be expected to engineer an album or draw up a legal document for the next Spice Girls - they will probably be making the tea or helping with simple administrative jobs. And if that doesn't appeal they should understand that they are there to learn, and besides many top record company executives and record producers started that way!
- Remind your child that if they find they don't understand how to do something they should always ask someone
- Make sure that there is someone at the company who is directly responsible for your child and who can ensure that they will get the most out of it
- Your child should try to find out what they will be doing and what to expect. The first taste of the workplace can be a culture shock for a school student.
- It is important to leave a good impression: a work experience person who is polite and helpful may be making contacts which will stand them in good stead later on
- Don't make a fuss! Let them get on with it - if they are having problems they will no doubt come to you, but it won't impress their work place if they are having constant calls from a concerned parent.
- Talk to them about what they enjoy and don't enjoy about being in the work environment
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| Every child is unique and develops at his or her own pace. The information in BBC Parents' Music Room is for information and guidance only and should not be treated as a substitute for medical, legal or other professional advice. |
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