Merchants’ Academy offers unrivalled levels of contacts and links with local and national organisations, many of whom will offer bespoke work experience placements to our students. Recent placements have included The Bristol Port Company, Nisbets, Pattersons, Bristol Royal Infirmary and the Marriott Hotel.

Work experience forms an important part of a student’s education – they learn vital workplace and communication skills, as well as gaining a valuable insight into different career options. Whilst from September 2011, it is not compulsory to attend a work experience placement, students who are serious about their future will make every effort to secure a placement for July.

A recent headline in The Telegraph stated that:

“Graduates without work experience won’t find a job”
(18th January, 2011)

All students in year 10 will complete an employability skills week, in mid July, which will include a work placement and workshops run by various business partners. Your tutor, Mrs Pollard and Mr Nixon will help you to secure this placement.

Year 12 and 13 students who are studying a vocational programme, are required to complete one or two weeks placement. Mrs Pollard and your class teacher will assist in finding this placement.