TEACHERS GUIDE TO THE OPENING DOORS PROGRAMME
“Every pupil should have first-hand experiences of the workplace through work visits, work shadowing and/or work experience to help their exploration of career opportunities and expand their networks. Every year, from the age of 11, pupils should participate in at least one meaningful encounter with an employer.”
Prof John Holman 2014 (Gatsby Foundation Report for Good Career Guidance)
Step 1
Using this online brochure, decide which employer you would like to visit. Choose at least 3 to contact as not all may be able to offer your desired date.
Step 2
Contact the person whose name and details are given in the brochure at least 8-10 weeks as a minimum before the desired date.
Step 3
Explain why you want to visit their company – is it related to an area of the curriculum or is it a careers related event?
Step 4
Agree a date, time and number of students.
Step 5
Request safety documents
- A visitor’s/Tour Risk Assessment
- Public Liability Insurance Certificate (£5-10 million)
- Itinerary of the visit
Ask about any other requirements (e.g. special footwear that the employer may be providing)
Step 6
Book transport and complete any internal paperwork required by school. Please remember to gain third party photography permission from parents – employers may want to feature the visit on their website/newsletters etc.
Step 7 & 8
Once all the above is in place – contact the employer one more time to reconfirm and finalise arrangements. Finally, fill in the OPENING DOORS NOTIFICATION FORM 10 days before visit, within the brochure, to inform the Opening Doors Team that a visit is taking place.
Step 8
If possible, try to hold a short briefing session with the students prior to the visit;
- Outline behaviour and H&S expectations – They are visiting a live working environment
- Explain the reason they are attending the visit
- Ask them to prepare some questions they may have as they will have an opportunity to ask them.