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Guiding at-risk youth through learning to work
Lessons from across Europe

portal through which applications to formal courses (from initial vocational
education and training to higher education) are made, and the website which
compares employment opportunities and prospects in all key occupations and
fields.
It is obvious that many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds
experience access problems with Internet-based tools, though this information is
more widely and easily available than before. It is still important to bear in mind
that Internet-based tools should be seen as one of many available support
provisions for young people and all efforts should be made to widen access to
Internet-based guidance tools at least in schools and other premises where
young people spend time. Also, Internet portals cannot replace what personal
advisers and guidance counsellors can do to help young people in their career
and life decisions.

6.4.5. Well-planned and organised work placements
It has long been acknowledged by students, academics and employers alike that
gaining work experience can improve employability for young people.
Experiences that connect career education programmes more directly and
experientially to the world of work can, for example, help young people
understand the occupation implications of their education choices, improve their
career management skills and act as bridge-builders into further education.
Providing work placements also brings numerous benefits for employers.
However, work experience programmes must be well planned, organised,
followed up and resourced to deliver benefits. Guidance, for both the young
person and the employer, is essential for the success of a work experience
scheme. To begin, effective brokerage arrangements between enterprises and
schools are vital to ensure there are sufficient placements. Further, a clear set of
learning outcomes should be identified by the school and discussed with the
pupils and with the employer beforehand.
In Finland for example, a website (http://www.peda.net/veraja/tori/) has been
created to support the compulsory school work experience programme,
addressing students, parents, career guidance counsellors and employers.
Adolescents can find practical advice about placement periods but the site is also
useful for local employers who can advertise placements and learn how the work
experience should be arranged in practice. The website also aids the work of
teachers and study advisors, as all the necessary forms can be found there.
Students must be motivated to learn from their experience and must be
willing to take responsibility for this learning (Pohjonen, 2002). They may need
information on the opportunities available and help in making the choice about

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