The new work experience requirement, introduced by the Department for Education in May 2025, marks a significant shift in careers education across England. Here’s what it means and why it matters:

🔍 What’s Changing?

Starting September 2025, the Careers & Enterprise Company (CEC) and Careers Hubs will be working with partners to ‘ready the system’. 

The start of implementation is September 2026, where all throughout their secondary education will be guaranteed 10 days’ worth of meaningful work experience. 

This is part of a broader effort to modernise careers education and ensure that young people are better prepared for the world of work.

💡 Why Is This Important?

1. Bridging the Skills Gap - Work experience helps students develop essential employability skills—like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—that employers consistently say are lacking in school leavers.
2. Informed Career Choices - Exposure to real workplaces allows students to explore different industries and roles, helping them make more informed decisions about their future education and career paths.
3. Equity of Opportunity - By making work experience a statutory requirement, the policy aims to ensure all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality placements—not just those with personal or family connections.
4. Employer Engagement - This initiative also strengthens the relationship between schools and local employers, creating a more responsive and collaborative skills ecosystem.
5. Support for Schools and Employers - The Careers & Enterprise Company (CEC) and Careers Hubs are providing guidance, training, and resources to help schools and employers prepare for and deliver this new requirement effectively.