Graduates told ‘get work experience’

Posted 27 Mar 2009

University-leavers will struggle to find employment unless they already have some experience of the working environment, according to the head of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

Richard Lambert has insisted students should appreciate the importance of garnering professional skills while still studying and take part in work placements before graduating.

Launching a report with Universities UK on preparing graduates for work, Mr Lambert called for greater interaction between education establishments and businesses to achieve this aim.

He said: "To say that the class of 2009 won’t have it easy after graduation is an understatement – competition for jobs will be the most intense for many years.

"There’s no substitute for experience gained directly on the job and offering placements can be a cost effective route to recruitment."

Meanwhile, TEFL positions abroad have been hailed as a good route into work for those recently laid off or unable to find their first job.

According to Nadia Daer, coordinator for Gapforce, heading abroad for a short-term teaching contract shows applicants are proactive and adventurous individuals and enhances employment experience.

Category: Teaching and Learning