Work Experience at Sandwell College
Work experience is a key part of your journey at Sandwell College. It helps you build confidence, develop real employability skills, and understand what your future career could look like. Every learner has the opportunity to take part in meaningful work experience that supports your course, personal goals, and next steps whether that’s a job, an apprenticeship, or further study.
We work with employers across the region to offer placements in a wide range of sectors, from business and health to digital, construction, creative industries, engineering, and more. Work experience is designed to help you make informed career choices and gain the skills employers value most.
What work experience looks like for you
Work experience at Sandwell College is designed to help you explore your career interests, understand the world of work, and develop the skills employers look for. Every study programme includes opportunities that are relevant to your course — whether that’s taking part in real workplace activities, completing an external placement, meeting employers, getting involved in industry-led projects, or volunteering in your local community.
Your placement or experience will be tailored to your level, goals, and aspirations. Foundation learners may focus on building confidence and trying different work environments, while vocational, A level, ESOL and specialist pathways include more industry-focused experiences. T Level students take part in extended placements connected to their industry areas.
No matter your course, you’ll receive support from staff and employers who understand your goals and want to help you achieve them.
How we support your work experience
To make sure you get the most out of your placement, we offer:
- A dedicated Work Experience Team to help match you with employers.
- Strong employer partnerships across the local area.
- Sector spotlights and employer events to help you learn about different industries.
- Support for SEND and disadvantaged learners, including flexible placement models, travel help, and personalised guidance.
We also work closely with your curriculum team to ensure your placement connects with what you’re learning in class and helps you progress toward your goals.
Your voice matters
After your placement, you’ll reflect on what you learned and share feedback. This helps us improve opportunities for future students and ensures your work experience remains meaningful, safe, and high quality. Employers also provide feedback that you can use for your CV, UCAS applications, or future job interviews.
Why work experience matters
Work experience gives you the chance to:
- Try out a real workplace
- Meet employers and build your network
- Gain confidence and independence
- Strengthen your CV
- Discover what motivates you
- Develop key skills like teamwork, communication, and problem solving
- Prepare for your next steps after college
It’s a powerful part of your personal development and plays a major role in helping you succeed beyond college.
Contact the Work Experience Team
If you need help finding a placement or want to talk about your options, contact us:
