Work experience can be one of the most valuable parts of secondary school. But when it’s rushed or chosen poorly, it can also be disappointing or unhelpful. Here are five common mistakes to avoid – and how Focus XR can help:
- Choosing based on what your friends are doing. Your experience should reflect your goals and interests, not someone else’s.
- Picking the easiest or nearest option. Convenience is fine, but not if it means missing out on a more relevant or exciting opportunity.
- Not researching the placement. Going in blind can lead to a poor experience. Students should understand what the business does, what they’ll do, and what to expect.
- Relying on one short week to make a career decision. One placement alone isn’t enough. Use tools like Focus XR to explore different industries and roles beforehand.
- Being passive during the experience. Students should ask questions, take notes, and engage actively. Focus XR helps them build the confidence to do that.
By combining immersive experiences with real-world placements, Focus XR helps students prepare better, engage more deeply, and reflect meaningfully afterwards. They can use it to:
- Get familiar with different jobs before applying
- Practice workplace behaviour and expectations
- Review their experience afterwards through assessments
Schools can use Focus XR as part of career education, helping students avoid these common pitfalls and get more out of their work experience journey.
Thoughtful preparation, some planning, and the right tools make all the difference. And for Year 10s, it could shape what comes next.
