Hero Image

Work experience with Bernicia

We work closely with local schools to give young people the chance to learn about the world of work.

Our work experience placements help students build confidence, learn new skills and understand what it is like to work in a professional environment. They also give us the opportunity to support young people in our communities and help shape future careers.

What students can expect

During their time with us, students can learn about a wide range of roles across Bernicia. This includes areas such as housing services, business support, construction and trades.

They will gain an insight into what these roles involve and how we work together to support our customers and communities.

Building skills for the future

Work experience with Bernicia helps young people develop important skills they can use in any job. These include:

  • communication and teamwork

  • customer service

  • professional behaviour in the workplace

We also offer support with:

  • writing a CV

  • searching and applying for jobs

  • preparing for interviews, including mock interviews

What’s included

Our placements include a range of practical activities designed to give students real experience and help them prepare for the future. These include:

Induction
A warm welcome and introduction to the placement, the team and what to expect during the week.

Office and site tours
A chance to explore the workplace and see different teams and environments in action.

Team activities
Practical group activities to build confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Customer service awareness
An introduction to the importance of customer service and how it supports people every day.

Communication exercises
Activities designed to strengthen speaking, listening and workplace communication skills.

Apprentice Q and A session
Time with apprentices to ask questions and hear honest insights about learning and working.

Department insight sessions
Sessions with different departments to show the range of roles and careers across the organisation.

Employability support
Helpful guidance to support future applications, interviews and overall career confidence.

Travel expenses and lunches provided.

Here are a few tips to get the best out of your time with work experience by Bernicia.

Be curious icon

Be curious – ask questions, treat everything like an opportunity to understand how things work.

Be eager to learn icon

Be eager to learn – say yes to tasks, keep a journal of what you learn each day.

Talk to people icon

Talk to people – ask colleagues about their roles, career paths and tips. Don’t be afraid to make small talk as it builds relationships and makes the day more enjoyable.

Be proactive icon

Be proactive – when you finish a task, ask what else you can help with. Enthusiasm gets you noticed.

Distractions icon

Distractions – keep your mobile phone out of sight, it will pose a distraction.

End strong icon

End strong – thank people who helped you and ask for feedback. This could lead to references to support your CV.