Work experience – what’s your experience?
A new survey has been launched today (13 April) in a bid to reveal the truth behind work experience in the animal health and welfare industries.
The short online survey is designed to explore the reality of work experience in the sector and is being spearheaded by Lantra Sector Skills Council following a call from industry. All employers from the animal care industry are now being asked to take part in the survey that is now available online. Lisa Jarvis, Industry Partnership Manager at Lantra said, “We wanted to carry out a survey to determine employer’s perspective on work experience. We recognise the value to students but it is often the employer’s experiences that are overlooked. It is very much taken for granted that placements are offered, with little thought as to the effort and commitment that employers put in.” The survey will capture information on employers in animal care, equine and veterinary nursing. It will look at if businesses currently offer work experience, the reasons behind their choices as well as any issues or benefits. The RSPCA’s Skills Development Manager Simon Johnston, who is also Chair of Lantra’s animal care industry group said, “We found that employers were having very different experiences of work experience – some extremely positive and others not so good – and that was just from our group. This survey will help us uncover the full picture of work experience and is open to all in animal health and welfare industries, including pet shops, zoos, stables, veterinary practices.” It is envisaged that the results of the survey will be used to provide useful information for students, parents and providers when thinking about applying for or supporting work experience as well as highlighting the contribution of employers. Lisa continued, “The findings from the survey will be beneficial to all of industry, but the more people that take part, the better the results. We would really like to hear from a range of employers, both those that do and do not offer placements, so we can gain a credible and realistic picture of how work experience is working for the animal care industry. To take part in the consultation visit, www.lantra.co.uk/work-experience.
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