Springpod

Through the Springpod website students can gain access to a wide range of virtual work experience and university course taster sessions.   Students can research pathways, careers, employers and universities, find resources and read case studies to help them make informed choices.  There is also information on job opportunities and apprenticeships.

Virtual work experience programmes from major companies and organisations enable students to  undertake a work experience programme that typically includes around 10 hours of online activities. The programme and activities are completed to a personalised schedule.  On completion, students receive certificates that can be shared with potential employees and included on a CV.  Search here for the latest work experience programmes on Springpod across a range of sectors and industries. 

See current work experience programmes in the following sectors:

• Accounting, Banking and Finance
• Engineering
• Digital, IT and Computing

University subject taster sessions provide subject spotlights - students can sign up for a mini-lecture series delivered by top academics designed to give students a chance to experience realistic university-style learning in subjects they may want to study.   Students can search by subject area or university.  Current subject tasters on offer include:

• Pharmacy, Pharmacology &Toxicology from UCL
• English Literature from University of Birmingham
• Computer Science from University of Sunderland

Apprenticeships and Jobs information is also available and students can browse opportunities available by sector and employer

Speakers for Schools

Speakers for Schools provides access to work experience and inspirational talks that will help young people in state schools reach their full career potential.  They are committed to using their influence to champion social mobility and improve diversity in the workplace.  

Search for virtual and in-person work experience here

Search the Inspirational Talks Library here

Apprenticeships

The Essential Guide to Degree Apprenticeships 2025 edition - Students and parents can access this free 100-page guide to how degree apprenticeships offer an alternative to a traditional university degree pathway.  There is also a 30-minute programme to introduce the ‘earn as you learn’ route to a university degree or professional qualification. With tips and advice on how to apply for degree apprenticeships, the programme includes interviews with current degree apprentices and senior recruiters from well-known degree apprenticeship employers. Access the Guide here

UNIVERSITY TASTER DAYS

UniTasterDays.com provides a Parent Guide to University to support your child in making an informed choice about higher education.  Contributions are provided by over 75 universities and expert voices from the sector. The guide is divided into sections to support you and your young person through every stage of the university journey. This includes researching options, attending events, financing studies, applying, and preparing for university life.  There is also a Student Guide.  Access the Guide here