Schools and employers should work closer together in a three-way partnership with young people to ensure their work experience placements help them develop the skills they need for future employment, according to a new CBI report.

CBI director-general Richard Lambert and Schools Minister Jim Knight launched the report, which was jointly funded by the Department for Education and Skills.

Research carried out for the report showed 90% of students enjoyed their work experience and 80% thought it gave them a good insight into work, but most did not feel they had clear goals for their placement and many said they received little feedback.
Nearly all employers said their work experience placement reinforced essential skills for work, but about half felt there was room for improvement.

Lambert says: "Radical steps may have to be taken to ensure more of these young people are able to develop the skills they and the economy need for the future. Unemployment should no longer be an option - we should aim for all young people to be in good quality education or employment.

"Students must understand why continuing in education or training is important and appreciate those skills that will help them succeed in later life. The best work experience embeds skills such as team-working, problem-solving, customer care or communication at a formative stage in a young person's development."