Our Year 10 students recently took part in their week of work experience, a key part of their personal development and careers education.

Over the course of the week, students were placed in a wide range of industries, from
education and healthcare to engineering, hospitality, and media. Many students worked in local primary and secondary schools—including Basildon Lower Academy—as well as
nurseries, care homes, beauty salons, and businesses such as Cycle King, The Entertainer toy shop, South Essex Gymnastics Club, St Luke’s Hospice, Gateway FM, and Wragg Bros Metal
Fabricators Ltd.

This year’s placements also included opportunities in accountancy, recruitment, transport, engineering and graphic design, and even a football club—giving students first-hand experience in fields they may one day pursue as careers.

Staff at the host organisations were full of praise for our students, highlighting their
maturity, professionalism, and willingness to learn. For many, it was their first taste of the working world, and they rose to the challenge with confidence and enthusiasm.

We are incredibly proud of how well this year’s students represented the Upper Academy and thank all the employers who generously supported them.

“I am very happy in my work placement; I enjoy anything to do with transport, so this has been a great experience.” Peter.T - Quality Asset Management Ltd

“Regal, Stephanie and Dorcas have been respectful and attentive. They have been punctual and have taken tasks set seriously.” Yetunde Adeshile - Founder and CEO, The Next Generation CIC

“I really appreciate the opportunity I have been granted; everyone has made me feel very welcome.” Lily.Y – St Luke’s Hospice Shop

“I think a toy shop is a lovely place to work in. It is very fast paced, and my social skills have
improved since I have been here.” Destiny.A – The Entertainer

“I am really enjoying my placement. I wish it was for longer” Leon.S – Mother’s Kitchen Ltd

“I am enjoying my work experience, for example Miss Barnard allowed me to take photos of the Lower Academy Garden. Also, Miss Cowan has helped me a lot.” Zachary.G – The Basildon Lower Academy

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to experience the working world — it helped me decide on my career path. I learned a lot, got to work with my former teachers, and I've even been invited back to volunteer.” Jessica.N

“My experience working with the Lower Academy PE department was really educational. I learned about responsibility and what it takes to be a teacher. It was a new experience, and I really enjoyed it. I even had the opportunity to lead PE classes for younger year groups.” Boglarka.B