About

There are many gateways into the industry for people over the age of 16 but there is a complete absence of similar entry points for 14- and 15-year-olds in Year 10, the year children undertake their official school work experience. This is a critical time to capture their imaginations and focus them on the career possibilities ahead and yet currently it is simply not happening.

Founded by ex-English teacher Keely Wilson, the focus of Experience Work starts in state schools where teachers put curious, capable, and talented students forward for an experience that is generally considered out of reach. “If school-age children don’t experience the industry prior to 16 years of age, how do they know which courses they should pursue post GCSE? From Year 9, decisions are being made, pathways are being carved out and yet, unless a young person has a contact in the industry or a family member that can help, it is an unimaginable career choice,” says Wilson.

“The power of quality, well organised work experience at this age cannot be overstated. Experience Work oversees the whole process, coaching and preparing schools and students as well as supporting the industry hosts and creating the content and schedules necessary to make it all happen.”

Leyla from Deptford Green School, placed with Sister Pictures says, “Through my work experience in the film industry, I have been captivated by everything that unfolds behind the scenes. I have been pushed to embrace new challenges and explore the depths of my creativity. From attending film workshops to immersing myself in the prestigious BFI course, I have discovered a desire and passion for film that I didn’t know was there.”

Priority is given by Experience Work to Free School Meal students and those from underrepresented backgrounds, kids facing barriers with no link at all to the industry and no chance of a professional encounter like this. Experience Work is reaching the young people that need the help the most.

Brassic and Ten Pound Poms TV Screenwriter Danny Brocklehurst’s recent article stated that working-class kids need to see there is a place for them in the industry, “only a quarter of those employed in the UK screen industries come from a working-class background, compared with 38% in the wider economy.” Experience Work’s initiative is working hard to change this.

Understandably, hosts have historically been nervous of the legalities and insurance around under 18 placements. However, Experience Work discovered that once companies realise it’s possible and are fully supported throughout every step of the process, they were thrilled to help.

Some amazing production companies are taking part:  Eleven (Sex Education), Pulse Films (Gangs of London), Left Bank Pictures (The Crown), Fable Pictures (Mr Loverman) and Sister Pictures (Chernobyl) to name only a few.

All the students benefit massively from this tailored, meaningful experience. This same effect does not occur when companies go into schools to do talks or when students take part in virtual experiences. This is real-life interaction, something that children of this age need and deserve, especially when they are not exposed to it anywhere else in their life.