In July 2025, over 150 Year 10 pupils from Penyrheol Comprehensive School successfully completed a week of work experience, supported by a wide range of businesses across Swansea.
Pupils took up placements in diverse employment sectors, including retail, tourism, hair and beauty, construction, and healthcare. The variety of opportunities meant that every pupil could gain an insight into a workplace that interested them, helping to broaden horizons and link classroom learning to real-world careers.
The week was not only about experiencing different industries but also about developing the employability skills that employers value most. Pupils built confidence in areas such as teamwork, problem-solving, and customer service, while also learning the importance of adaptability in the workplace.
Employer feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Pupils were praised for their professional conduct, punctuality, smart appearance, and strong communication skills. Several businesses highlighted how quickly pupils became part of the team and how well they represented the school during their placement.
The success of the programme also reflects the school’s core values:
- Aspire – pupils showed ambition by embracing new challenges and exploring future career pathways.
- Thrive – they grew in confidence, developing the skills needed to succeed in life beyond school.
- Respect –pupils demonstrated respect for employers, colleagues, and customers throughout their placements.
- Belong – by engaging with the wider community, pupils strengthened their sense of belonging to Swansea and pride in representing their school.
This week of work experience highlights the importance of collaboration between schools and local employers in preparing young people for their next steps in education and employment. It also underlines how Penyrheol pupils are living out the school’s values while making the most of opportunities to shape their futures.
