“Work experience is considered to be one of the highlights of the Transition Year, alongside the much anticipated Killary trip. It is an opportunity to get out of the classroom, and gain an insight into the ‘world of work.’
This year, work experience took place in the two weeks prior to the Easter holidays. Preparation for the fortnight had begun months in advance, with the posting of letters and filling in of forms in an attempt to secure placements.
Some thoughts ...
'I really enjoyed my work experience. I had the chance to see the careers that I am considering are like from day to day. It really helped me in making more informed subject choices.' Niamh
'For my work experience, I did physiotheraphy in a hospital and worked in a Fire station. I found both really interesting and now have a much better idea of what to do in the future ' Daragh
'I really enjoyed work experience. I'm thinking about being a primary school teacher and my experience working in a primary school has given me a much more realistic idea of what the job involves. I now want to pursue that career more than ever !' Georgina
'I really enjoyed working. I can't wait to go and work myself. Work experience helped me to decide what I want to study in college. It was great fun also. It has motivated me to achieve a good Leaving Certificate. ' Ella-Louise
'I found my work experience very benefical because it showed me what the real working world was like. It also gave me a deeper insight and allowed me to see whether or not I liked the type of work I was involved in.' Elizabeth
'I think my work experience was one of the best parts of the Transition Year. I worked for a pharmaceutical company in Ireland which tests new products. I met many interesting and friendly people and learned a great deal .... It was good for my English skills which improved. ' Julian
'The first week I was working in the Mater Hospital .... I learned a lot but the long hours turned me off the job ! The second placement was in the Four Courts .... I attended court cases and read files ... it was completely new to me and could be a possible career path. ' Dearbhla
Georgina would like to become a primary school teacher
Work Experience is certianly seen as being one of the most important and useful aspects of the Transition Year programme in The King's Hospital - by pupils, parents and staff.
Form 4 Careers Day October 2008
The King's Hospital, Palmerstown, Dublin 20, Ireland
