Evidence for today’s challenges
With more than one million young people now not in education, employment or training (NEET), work experience and employer engagement are once again at the centre of the national debate.
For more than two decades, Education and Employers has been researching the role that meaningful encounters with employers and high-quality work experience play in helping young people make successful transitions into adulthood.
As policy-makers consider how to tackle rising numbers of young people who are NEET, our research continues to provide evidence to inform policy and practice.
New report out now
Work Experience: Past, Present and Future
Our latest research explores the changing role of work experience and employer engagement, inequalities in access, and the challenges schools and employers face in providing meaningful opportunities.
Drawing on new evidence and insights, the report examines what schools and employers need to ensure all young people have access to high-quality opportunities.
Why employer engagement matters
Our research has shown that work experience and employer engagement can have a lasting impact on young people in ways that go far beyond career choices, as it:
- broadens horizons and raises aspirations
- increases motivation, confidence and attitudes to learning
- challenges gender and social stereotypes
- improves educational outcomes
- increases young people’s earning potential
- reduces the likelihood of becoming NEET
Building the evidence
Work experience and employer engagement may be back in the spotlight, but this is not a new area of research. Education and Employers has been building the evidence base for more than a decade.
2012 It’s Who You Meet
Our landmark research demonstrated the importance of employer engagement and showed that young people who experienced four or more meaningful employer encounters were significantly less likely to become NEET.
2018 Employer engagement in education
The report found that employer engagement can transform young people’s aspirations, learning and readiness for work, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
2026 Work Experience: Past, Present and Future
New evidence and insights into what works, who misses out and what schools and employers need to ensure every young person has access to meaningful opportunities.
