Springboard is excited to announce the relaunch of our Work Experience Programme, delivered in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This refreshed initiative is designed to support people who want to gain office‑based work experience, build confidence, and develop the essential skills needed to move into paid employment.
This programme is part of Springboard’s ongoing mission to help individuals overcome barriers to work and access meaningful opportunities that improve long‑term employability.
A Four‑Week Work Experience Placement Designed for Real Progress
Our Work Experience Programme runs on a rolling four‑week basis, supporting one participant at a time. This personalised approach ensures each individual receives focused, high‑quality support in a real office environment.
Participants will gain:
- Office‑based skills such as admin tasks, digital skills and workplace communication
- Soft skills including teamwork, time management and problem‑solving
- Increased confidence through hands‑on experience
- CV‑ready experience that employers actively look for
- Practical job‑search support, including interview preparation
This structure helps break the cycle many jobseekers face: needing experience to get a job, but needing a job to get experience.
Why Work Experience Matters for Jobseekers Today
Recent reporting highlights how difficult it has become for young people and jobseekers to secure their first role. According to BBC News, many applicants struggle to get entry‑level roles because they lack previous experience even when they are motivated and actively applying.
This challenge is made worse by:
- Increased competition for entry‑level roles
- Online applications widening the candidate pool
- Employers expecting more workplace‑ready skills
Springboard’s Work Experience Programme directly addresses these issues by giving participants structured, supported, real‑world experience that strengthens their CV and boosts their confidence.
Supporting National Employment Goals Through Partnership With DWP
The DWP continues to expand support for jobseekers through training, skills development and work‑focused programmes. Springboard’s Work Experience Programme aligns with these national priorities by offering a local, practical pathway into employment.
Together, we aim to help people:
- Build employability skills
- Gain real workplace experience
- Move closer to sustainable employment
- Feel confident and capable in a professional setting
What Participants Can Expect During the Programme
Over the four weeks, participants will:
- Work alongside the Springboard team in a supportive office environment
- Learn essential administrative and digital skills
- Build confidence through real tasks and responsibilities
- Receive personalised guidance on CV writing and job applications
- Prepare for interviews with tailored coaching
- Leave with meaningful experience to add to their CV
Our goal is simple: to help people take their next step into employment with confidence and clarity.
A Person‑Centred Approach That Makes a Difference
By supporting one participant at a time, Springboard ensures that each individual receives the attention, encouragement and guidance they need. Whether someone is entering the job market for the first time or returning after a break, our programme is designed to meet them where they are and help them move forward.
Get Involved or Refer Someone Today
If you work with individuals who could benefit from gaining office‑based work experience, or if you’d like to learn more about how the programme works, the Springboard team is here to help.
Together with the DWP, we’re committed to helping people build brighter futures—one placement at a time.