Work experience
Drax offers an exciting work experience for students at school or college in years 10-13 (England) or S4-6 (Scotland).
There are two phases:
Phase One – a virtual or in person induction where students receive an insight into the Drax business, advice/guidance on CV’s and interviews and some immersive learning activities geared around improving employability skills.
Phase Two – a one or two week onsite practical, work experience at a chosen site and in a chosen business area.
Students can work at different locations, in a variety of departments. We try to offer a range of placements, so students can gain an insight into an area of interest. Some examples of business departments involved in placements in 2022 and 2023 have included:
IT, Human Resources, Engineering, Maintenance, Data science, People Development, External Affairs, Customer services and Business Analysis.
Selection process
Our work experience timeline:
- Early December to early January – online applications accepted
- Early January to mid-February – applications reviewed, students interviewed, selections made, placements assigned
- Between February and May Half Term – inductions take place
- May to October – one or two week on site placements take place (subject to business restrictions or operational requirements)
Where possible, we like to ensure that students are matched with a placement in their area of interest. We receive a high volume of applications every year. We do our best to accommodate applicants, but cannot guarantee any placements.
Please visit our current vacancies page to apply (during the application window). Our current work experience placement vacancies are open to apply for until Friday 13th January.
FAQs
I’m at college, not school – is your work experience for school leavers only?
We are happy to support placements for students who are at college in years 10–13/S4-6. The timescales for college students are the same as the school calendar.
How old do I have to be to apply?
You must have turned 14 before 31 August in the year the placement is to take place to be eligible.
Do I have to attend an interview for a placement?
Not in all instances, however if an interview is required to assess your suitability, these will take place over the phone during January/February each year.
Would I get a report/reference from my work placement?
Most schools will ask students to complete a report book during their placement. Often, schools will visit Drax mid-placement to see how their student is progressing. References can be provided on request and a certificate will be issued upon successful completion of both parts of the placement.
What happens if we receive too many applications?
Applications are assessed on an individual basis and are dependent on the site, and departments that our business is offering placements, each year. Therefore, it is important that students apply online as soon as the placement is advertised. Where possible, we like to ensure that students are matched with a placement in their area of interest.
What is the dress code while on a placement?
If students are placed in an office environment the dress code is smart business wear – no jeans or trainers. In a production environment they will need to wear special protective clothing which we will provide. This is worn on top of old casual wear. When a placement is confirmed, each student will be told what to wear before their start date.
What hours and days will I work?
Normal office hours. These will be advised when the placement is confirmed, as they may differ slightly between sites.
How long are the placements?
The induction part of the placement is usually one day, during term time, and the in-person placement is one or two weeks depending on business and student demands. Both elements must be completed to successfully complete the placement at Drax.
What will happen before my placement?
Before the first day of a placement each student will receive a letter with all the information required for their time with us. This will give details of when and where to arrive, what to wear, and in-depth health and safety information that needs to be adhered to on site. Each student has a dedicated person who will look after them throughout their placement.
Students will also get access to a learning portal, containing lots of hints and tips and access to online learning modules for the duration of the year their placement takes place in.
What safety procedures do you follow?
Our safety procedures are very robust. We ensure that all students sign a Young Person’s Risk Assessment and that a full Fit to Work Assessment is carried out prior to all placements. Students are only allowed to be involved in work which is outlined in the risk assessment.
Do I need any specific safety equipment?
Full safety equipment and clothing will be provided for every role, where relevant. Prior to your placement you will be given full written confirmation of what you need to wear. All safety equipment will be provided by us.
