London Development Agency Unveil Work Related Links For Students

The London Development Agency (LDA) with Skillset and the Government Office for London have unveiled a series of exciting schemes to link students with employers through work related experience (WRL).
A high profile event at the Guardian Newsroom brought together Channel 4, BBC, The Arts Council and The Guardian to broadcast short films showcasing innovative ways of giving students a taste of working in the print, broadcast and film media. The WRL initiatives provide the real life experience needed by young people to complete their studies. They differ from traditional work experience by using e-mentoring, mobile and off site models to support students irrespective of their location in London.
Manny Lewis Chief Executive of the London Development Agency said:
"We applaud the commitment shown by Skillset and leading employers to open up the creative industries to Work Related Learning. These WRL schemes provide employers with a cheap and easy way to offer work experience and the chance to inspire tomorrow’s workforce."
The BBC’s Blast Mobile Learning Centre, Channel 4’s Breaking the News and the Guardian’s Learning Centre provided models of good practice which can be applied beyond the creative sector. The event coincides with the introduction of new specialised Diplomas for 14-19 year olds which require industry experience.
Clive Jones, Chairman of Skillset and Chairman of GMTV said:
"With the introduction of the new specialised diplomas, we have an exceptional opportunity as employers and educationalists to provide young people with a relevant and meaningful context for learning. The new qualifications will enable employers to support delivery and animate the curriculum through a range of pioneering models that are being showcased at this event."
(DS/SP)