In a bold move to revolutionise work experience for schoolchildren, the Liverpool City Region has been selected to pilot the innovative Equalex programme
This ambitious initiative aims to transform the traditional two-week work experience block into multiple, diverse experiences totalling ten days throughout secondary education.
The Equalex pilot, developed by The Careers and Enterprise Company (CEC) and supported by Careers Hubs, is designed to provide a breadth and depth of workplace experiences. This multi-year, multi-experience model is integrated with the curriculum and accessible to all learners. The programme will run across Key Stage 3 and 4, allowing students to gain valuable insights before and after making their GCSE options.
Several prominent employers in the Liverpool City Region, including Jaguar Land Rover, Knowledge Quarter Liverpool, NHS England, Atkins Realis, Keepmoat, Kimpton, and Unilever, have expressed interest in supporting the pilot. Additionally, small and medium-sized businesses and 12 schools are set to participate. These partnerships aim to fill skills gaps and prepare local children for tech jobs in the region’s pioneering Life Sciences Innovation Zone.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“Work experience is a vital part of a young person’s education, helping to equip them with the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need for their future careers.
“But for too long, too many pupils have missed out on meaningful opportunities – leaving them at a disadvantage when they take their first steps into the world of work. That has to change.
“I’m delighted that our region has been chosen to help lead the way on this innovative pilot. By giving schoolchildren real experience in some of our fastest-growing industries – like tech and our expanding Life Sciences Innovation Zone – we’re not just equipping them with the skills for the jobs of the future, we’re making sure those opportunities are open to everyone, no matter their background.”
Since the government removed the statutory requirement for schools to deliver work experience in 2012, participation levels have dropped significantly. It is estimated that only about 50% of young people currently have work experience. The Equalex pilot seeks to address this issue by providing high-quality, modern work experience opportunities for all students.
The Liverpool City Region pilot will target key growth sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Digital and Creative, and Health and Life Sciences. By focusing on these areas, the programme aims to equip students with the skills needed for the jobs of the future.
The Liverpool City Region is one of four areas across England chosen to test different aspects of the new model. The other pilots are taking place in Greater Manchester, West Midlands, and West Yorkshire. Following the successful completion of these trials, the project is expected to be scaled up for national roll-out.
The project will also explore the challenges faced by employers in providing work experience and seek solutions to support and inspire businesses to participate. By addressing these challenges, the Equalex pilot aims to create a sustainable and effective work experience model that benefits both students and employers.
Image credit: iStock
