Businesses are giving schoolchildren virtual work experience placements to prevent them from missing out on opportunities during the coronavirus.
The virtual work experience programme, run by the charity Speakers for Schools, aims to give state school students the same access to top jobs and networks as those from fee-paying schools, despite the lockdown.
The scheme was due to be launched at the end of this year but has been rushed forward because of fears that the coronavirus could rob young people of career opportunities — especially those from less advantaged backgrounds. More than 180 schools have signed up, as well as employers including Cisco, the Opera Holland Park, Marie Curie and BP.
The charity is also launching a virtual talks programme where speakers address schoolchildren via technology such as Skype, Google Hangout or Zoom, instead of face to face.
The aim is to end educational inequality by giving all young people access to influential and inspirational speakers.
Speakers for Schools said: “We recognise that we have a role to play in these extreme circumstances and that more can be done to provide mind-opening opportunities to young people in communities which struggle to access many of the UK’s eminent professionals and leading employers.
“With the launch of these two virtual programmes we want to ensure all young people from the most isolated regions of the UK have equal access to top career-preparing opportunities.”
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The charity suggests students can take part in their placement using Google Classroom. Students can be given tips on interviews, applications, and be given assignments to complete.
