Trident

Trident is an introduction to the world of work for students in Years 10 or 11. Students spend two weeks of curriculum time out of school and in the workplace. At this stage most have never worked so the concept is totally new to them – the aim is to give them a chance to see what different working environments are like, instil a work ethos and start to develop basic life/employability skills.

Whilst they are in the workplace they can learn all of these for themselves (by doing them) rather than being told what is expected of them in a classroom setting – which is never as effective.

Types of work placements

The 'jobs’ on the Trident database reflect the opportunities that are available.

There are around 400 employers taking part in the scheme, with 500 opportunities for students. Some opportunities are seasonal and not all are available for every placement period.

You will have a briefing at school explaining the scheme and showing you how to access the Trident website to view the available jobs.

What to think about when choosing your placement

Trident is about gaining basic employability skills.

The most important thing is that you choose something that really interests you. It may be something you are thinking of doing when you leave full-time education and you want to see what it's like. Or it may be something you have always wanted to try even though you may not want to take it up as a full-time job.

EMPLOYERS’ VIEW

Things to consider:

Would you like to be in an office environment or would you rather be outside doing something practical? Would you like to do something that is customer facing or be behind the scenes? You have to make six choices and you should be willing to be placed at any of your choices.

Making your choices

If your placement takes place in the spring or summer terms, you will be asked to make your choices in September or October before your placement.

If your placement takes place in autumn, you will be asked to make your choices before the Easter holidays.

Dave Soyer, Rabey’s Commercial Vehicles

As a long term supporter of Trident Work Experience, what do you feel are the benefits to the company, offering work experience placements to young people and would you encourage other employers to join the scheme?

The benefits for us are seeing the students coming out of their shells and interacting with members of staff and the feedback I get once they have completed their placement.

In what ways have you seen your students develop over their two week placements?

Some of the students have enjoyed their time with us so much and asked if they could come back in their holidays even though we weren’t paying them which shows great character when most of their friends are out having a good time.