Over the past few weeks, Oakham School students have been stepping beyond the classroom and into workplaces across the country, gaining first-hand experience of a wide range of professions as part of the School’s Futures Programme.
From Parliament to veterinary hospitals, global businesses to local enterprises, these placements have provided students with invaluable insight into the world of work, helping them develop confidence, professional skills and a clearer understanding of potential future career paths.
Work experience forms an important part of Oakham’s commitment to preparing students for life beyond school. By connecting academic learning with real-world environments, students are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves and develop the skills that employers and universities increasingly value, including communication, teamwork, adaptability and initiative. Through opportunities such as work experience, students are empowered to taken an active role in discovering where their strengths, interests and ambitions may lead.
This year’s placements have once again highlighted the incredible variety of opportunities available to our students.
Malaika spent three days in Westminster with Dr Caroline Johnson MP, where she observed parliamentary debates, contributed to work surrounding the Health Bill, attended committee meetings and even drafted a speech. Reflecting on the experience, she described it as invaluable in developing transferable skills and deepening her understanding of how the UK is governed, particularly as someone considering studying Law at university.
At Oakham Equine Vets, Nicola experienced the fast-paced environment of a specialist veterinary hospital, shadowing veterinary teams through consultations, diagnostic imaging and surgery preparation while gaining a realistic insight into the dedication and teamwork required within veterinary medicine.
Charlie enjoyed a week at Lands’ End’s European headquarters, spending time with teams across finance, marketing, data analysis, e-commerce, planning and retail. The placement offered a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how different departments work together to support a global business and demonstrated how technology, data and creativity influence commercial decision-making.
Elsewhere, Evie joined the team at Elizabeth Stanhope Interior Design, where she supported showroom operations, assisted with product management and helped at a customer event, gaining practical experience in both business administration and client engagement.
Ivan completed his placement with Forces Solutions, learning about the insurance industry while shadowing brokers, processing quotations and gaining an understanding of the specialist services provided to military personnel. His employers praised his professionalism, describing him as hardworking, courteous and a credit to Oakham School.
Other students explored careers in education, property and the arts, with placements including English Martyrs School, Batemans Auctioneers and CBS Products, each providing unique experiences and helping students build confidence in professional environments.
Experiences such as these not only help students make more informed decisions about university courses and future careers, but also allow them to discover new interests, develop workplace confidence and appreciate the skills required across a wide range of industries.
These opportunities would not be possible without the generosity of the many businesses, organisations and professionals who give their time to mentor and support Oakham students. The School is extremely grateful to every employer who welcomed a student into their workplace and helped make these experiences both enjoyable and meaningful.
Special thanks also go to Mrs Atkinson, whose dedication and organisation ensure the work experience programme runs so successfully each year. From coordinating placements to supporting students and employers throughout the process, her work plays a vital role in making these opportunities possible.
As our work experience programme continues, the School looks forward to celebrating even more placements in the coming weeks. We are always keen to hear from businesses and organisations interested in supporting future Oakham students by offering work experience placements. These partnerships play a vital role in helping young people explore future careers, build confidence and take their first steps into the professional world. For more information and how you can help, please contact Caroline Atkinson at cla@oakham.rutland.sch.uk.
