As businesses across Swindon and Wiltshire look towards future growth, one of the biggest challenges remains securing the right talent. The skills gap is a key concern, and employers have a unique opportunity to inspire, train and connect with the workforce of tomorrow.

The Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub is supporting local employers in offering experiences of the workplace, helping young people develop essential skills while giving businesses access to fresh perspectives and potential future recruits.

There are a variety of ways to get involved, including:
🔹 Traditional work experience – Host a student for a five-day placement to help them understand your industry and build essential skills.
🔹 Group visits – Give a tour of your workplace and provide an insight into career opportunities in your sector.
🔹 Insight days – Run a real-world challenge for students in a one-day workshop at your premises, helping them engage with industry tasks.
🔹 Regular placements – Offer a weekly placement for students, including T-Level and SEND learners, to build skills and confidence over time.
🔹 Virtual experiences – Create online content to showcase your industry, providing flexible learning opportunities.
🔹 Challenge days – Develop a problem-solving task for students to complete in school, supported by your staff.
🔹 Supported internships – Work-based programmes helping SEND students (aged 18–24) transition into employment.

By participating in these schemes, businesses can play a direct role in shaping the local talent pipeline and supporting the next generation of skilled employees.

For more details or to register your interest, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/SWWorkplaceExperience or contact our Business Navigators at [email protected].

Help us build a stronger future workforce for Swindon and Wiltshire today.