This module will provide you with guidance on how best to manage your time away from studies and how to transition back to student life.

What to consider before you return to university

This module will demonstrate the importance of resilience and its six
domains: health, tenacity, reasoning, composure, vision and collaboration.

Resilience workshop

This module will cover a range of skills that may be useful during your
interruption, including responding to setbacks, goal setting and thinking
positively.

Key skills

During this VWEX programme, you’ll learn how best to return to your studies
after an interruption. We’ll also cover a resilience workshop, and some key
skills that may be important to you during or after your interruption.

Nursing students at a university in the South East England currently on a break from their studies are welcome to apply

We’ll cover what to consider before you return to university after an
interruption. This includes how and when to stay in touch with your institution,
how to stay up-to-date, how to manage your finances, what your support
options are and more. We’ll then cover the importance of resilience and its six
domains and show you how to think positively, respond to setbacks, and set
goals. You’ll also get to complete activities and quizzes within this
programme.

Once you have applied for your programme, you will receive a confirmation email. You will be notified about the outcome of your application via email at least 3 days before the programme start date. Good luck!


When will I hear back if I have been successful with my application?

All live talks will be available as recordings. You can access these at the same link used to access the live event. So don’t worry if you can’t attend a live webinar, a recording will be available for you to access through your programme within 24 hours of the live event finishing.

What happens if I can't make a live talk/webinar?

You will have a chance to ask questions at the end of each webinar. These questions are typed out and then read to the presenter by the host of the live talk. There is no need to speak, and all student microphones will be muted for the duration of the live webinar.

Will I be able to ask questions/do I have to have my microphone on?

In this introductory module, you’ll learn about Aster’s business, why employees love working there, key teams and more. You’ll also complete an activity, quiz and attend a webinar.

Welcome to Aster

In this module, you’ll learn about the Customer Service division, what they do and why they’re important. You’ll also complete an activity, quiz and attend a webinar.

Introduction to Customer Service

In this module, you’ll learn about the Customer Service (Maintenance) division, what they do and why they’re important, including emphasis on key activities such as repairs, voids and groundwork. You’ll also complete an activity, quiz and attend a webinar.

Introduction to Customer Service (Maintenance)

In this module, you’ll learn about the Development division, what they do and why they’re important, including emphasis on key activities such as asset management and land and planning. You’ll also complete an activity, quiz and attend a webinar.

Introduction to Development

In this module, we’ll focus on key employability skills such as teamwork, accountability and motivation. You’ll learn about Aster’s application process, how to complete a good CV, get an apprenticeship and more. You’ll also complete an activity.

Getting Career Ready

If you ever wanted to learn about the housebuilding industry – now’s the perfect chance! During this programme, we’ll take you through the ins and outs of Aster Group, a housing developer and social landlord.

Students who live in either Wiltshire, Hampshire, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall or Dorset are welcome to apply

Aster Group  – The World of a Housing Developer & Social Landlord

During this virtual work experience programme, you’ll be provided with a comprehensive introduction to housing developer Aster Group. We’ll cover the company’s main departments – including Customer Service, Group, Maintenance and Development. That’s not all though! You’ll also get the chance to complete fun activities and quizzes, whilst meeting industry professionals during a series of live webinars.

Taking a part in this programme was a dream come true for me. I appreciate everyone's time to create this course and run it as smoothly as possible. The information which I received and learned was incredibly useful.e. Again, I really appreciate everyone's time and I am looking forward to taking part in other courses powered by Springpod, because it was worth my time and it was my pleasure. Thank you!

Adam

Thank you so much for putting your effort and time into this programme. You are helping to shape the future of this generation... the generation which are going to carry the future of the workforce on their shoulders'. Being able to talk about your personal careers in this industry and different ways to follow in your footsteps has inspired me so much. I am a dedicated, disciplined student but I have always felt very unsure about how to actually get a job (aside from the qualifications and education necessary). I already believed in myself, but you've all helped to make sure that I KNOW I can do it. Thank you so much :))

Lucienne

I wanted to say that I really appreciate all the time and work that you have put into organising this programme as well as choosing the activities, taking the time for the webinars and informing us students of early careers as well as what you do as a company in many different sectors. This has been so helpful and I couldn't be more glad that I was able to participate. It has been truly fun! Thank you very much to all those who were part of making this programme.

Ornella

I would like to thank you sincerely for giving me the opportunity to participate in such an interactive and relevant work experience in my area of interest. Especially as a result of the pandemic, the ability to find and partake in any form of work experience has been few and far between, let alone one that has been as informative and useful as this, so it has been a great experience overall. I look forward to any future virtual or even in-person work experience offered by Springpod, as I will certainly be applying for it.

Dillon

Of course! You can sign up to as many programmes as you like. 
What’s more, all live talks will be recorded, meaning you can 
easily catch up if there are any clashes. 

Can I enrol onto multiple programmes?

Yes! Once every section of the programme is marked as 
complete, you can download your certificate and show it off!

Will I receive a certificate once I’ve completed the 
programme?

We understand that life happens and deadlines aren’t always 
easy to meet. Luckily, most of our programmes are flexible and 
can easily fit around your schedule. However, it’s still a good idea
to check the specific start and end dates at the beginning of the 
programme.

How long will I have to complete the programme?

Look, we get it, student life is busy! If you don’t finish your work 
experience in time, there’s no need to worry! You’ll still have 
access to the programme after its official end date.

What happens if I can’t finish the programme in time?

Our programmes take up around ten hours of work in total, 
usually spread over a two week period. So, before signing up to a 
programme, perhaps think about how much time you’ve got to 
spare and what other commitments you’ll have to work around

How much work is required to complete a virtual work 
experience programme?

In this module you will learn about each of the 15 allied health professions. You will find out more about entry requirements, responsibilities and training and development opportunities linked to roles including paramedic, osteopath, orthoptist and operating department practitioner. You will also learn more about the skills required to perform therapy roles, such as: occupational therapist, physiotherapist, art therapist and speech and language therapist.

Introduction to the Allied Health Professions

In this module you will learn the core communication skills required to establish a career in health and social care. You will gain a thorough understanding of questioning, listening and dealing with complaints. You will also put your knowledge to the test by completing activities that relate to the six C’s of care and communication with patients.

The Art of Communication

Have you ever wondered what working in health and social care is really like? It’s a system that's responsible for treating patients and saving lives on a daily basis, but we often don’t fully understand what it’s like! This module will help with that - from introducing you to how the NHS is structured to introducing the core values and beliefs of those who work in healthcare, you’ll gain an insight into what it’s like to work in health and social care, and how it feels to truly make a difference!

The World of Health and Social Care

*This programme is on-demand, so if you meet the criteria you can apply and complete the programme once the programme is live*

If you're intrigued about a career where you can help other people every single day then this Virtual Work Experience is for you. The Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care System and Health and Social Care Partners will guide you through an exploration into the roles held by allied healthcare professionals throughout the healthcare system. You'll have your mind opened to the scope of these roles and be able to speak to real professionals to find out deeper insights about the realities of working in healthcare. Kickstart your career in the allied health professions and apply today!

Liz Hagon

Graham Bannister-Kelly

Rob Edge

Kirsty Wilding

Dan Redfern

Para Wilson

Philip Hulse

The programme is open for students aged 14-19 who are based in Shropshire, Telford, Wrekin, Staffordshire or Powys

Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care System is a partnership of all the NHS and Social Care organisations in Shropshire Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin Council. They are working together to develop and deliver the Sustainability and Transformation Plan (STP) for the area.

Allied Health Professions with the Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin ICS

During the programme, you'll cover each of the 15 allied health professions in depth, including patient journeys and multidisciplinary care, the art of communication and its importance in these careers. You'll learn about what it's like to work in health and social care, including what it's like to work for your local ICS and the wider NHS.

This programme will be available for 12 months after the 13th of June. We do encourage you to complete within 10 days of starting the programme. 

We’re all in some way a little familiar with the health and social care sector, but how much do you really know about it? As a system that we all rely on in our time of need, it’s pretty vital! This module will help explain the sector, making everything a little clearer - covering everything from skills and values needed for these careers, routes into the health system, and even an insight into the many benefits of working in health and social care! 

Introduction to Health and Social Care

Although you might be aware of some roles within healthcare, you might not have heard of the phrase allied health professions before - don’t worry, this module is here to help! In the module, we’ll introduce you to all the professions found within the umbrella term, and look at what they do, why they do it, and how you can do it, too! 

Allied Health Professions

The nursing team is the foundation of health and social care, and a role that we all admire and are thankful for in times of need. In this module, we’ll cover an introduction to some key areas of nursing such as mental health and learning disability nursing, as well as showing you the variety of roles out there for people who truly care about caring for others.

Nursing

One of the most recognisable roles within healthcare, medicine is integral to the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses or injuries. In this module, we’ll take you closer to the heart of medicine, covering medical specialities, how to become a doctor, and what daily life is like in some key roles! 

Medicine

Have you ever taken the time to think about how many possibilities are available within health and social care? You might be surprised about how many non-clinical roles are available, but you’ll be prepared after this module! Here, we’ll introduce you to the importance of non-clinical roles, and introduce you to the wider healthcare team that is essential to how health and social care operates! 

Non-Clinical Roles

This module highlights the importance of getting career-ready - looking at how to apply and an insight into the opportunities within your area! Health and social care services within the region have so many opportunities for amazing careers, and this module will provide you with the roadmap to achieving your dream! 

Health and social care is one of the largest and most exciting industries in the country. Integral to making sure that we’re healthy, happy, and cared for when things go wrong, there are over 350 dedicated and varied careers available. In this programme, brought to you by NHS Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG in collaboration with Springpod, you’ll have access to insight into the world of health and social care, so that you can see the opportunities available and make informed career decisions for your future.

Students who live in the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Region are welcome to apply

BSW (BANES, Swindon and Wiltshire) Health and Social Care 

This programme will cover everything from an introduction to the different areas of health and social care to an insight into the distinct roles, responsibilities, and progression opportunities that can be found within areas such as allied health professions, medicine, and non-clinical roles.  You’ll have the chance to take part in some great quizzes and amazing activities, and you’ll even have the chance to speak to leading industry experts along the way! 

You’ll earn a certificate if you complete the programme.

You’ll get practical skills and knowledge.

Add the experience to your CV and Personal Statement.

Smart cities. Urban Development. Municipal infrastructure. These are just some the absorbing and relevant areas you'll get to explore as part of this module.

Building a Better World

Complete with a live webinar, interactive activity and quiz, this module will cover the different roles in aerospace defence, security and technology so that you can understand the different pathways into this field.

Aerospace, Defence, Security & Technology (ADS&T)

Clean energy and power are at the forefront of policy and thinking around the world. That makes this a crucial module, as it will educate you on the different roles and areas within this essential area.

Energy and Clean Power

Following on well from the energy and clean power module, this sustainability section will cover the specifics of sustainable business strategy and how you can be part of a net-zero carbon future.

Sustainability

How do you coordinate engineering projects? What goes into designing large-scale infrastructure? Find out from world-leading design, engineering and project management consultants at Atkins! Kickstart you career today and become a 'Future Innovator'.

Lorna Prescott

Sean Bailey

Vera Jones

Students in years 10 or above are welcome to apply

We've worked with some awesome employers on Atkins Future Innovators. Check out some of our speakers.

Think you've got what it takes to work in engineering?

This programme will teach you how to build a better world, inclduing smart cities and urban development. You'll take this further by discovering aerospace defence and technology. Not only that, you'll also cover clean energy, power and sustainability so you can understand how to be part of a net-zero future.

You’ll meet professionals in live workshops and be able to ask them questions.

You’ll complete activities and work assignments to develop skills and knowledge.

Complete all work and assignments at times that are suitable to you.

Thank you very much for providing me with this excellent, unique and exclusive opportunity. I thank you for all your hard work in assembling this program and couldn't be more grateful for the chance to experience what a career is like in this industry, as previously I had no idea what a career in engineering was like. It was a very enjoyable program that was very interactive and challenging. It was extremely engaging while also forcing you to be independent and use your own brain to accomplish things. 

Alfie

It really opened up my view to types of work and the paths I can take to get there. It was really entertaining and interesting and really raised my interest in working at Atkins as you clearly showed how amazing the team is and the support especially on the mental health side of things. Thank you so much again for all your time, work and effort and I hope I can seek guidance from you all again!

Julian

Thank you so much for engaging with people like myself who dream to end up in a position that you're in at the moment. As a girl myself, I found it so comforting hearing about how welcomed the female industry professionals were at Atkins and it really encouraged me to keep working towards a career in engineering and to not be put off in this male-dominated industry as I now realise I deserve to be there just as much as anybody else.

Alanna

 Of course! You can sign up to as many programmes as you like.  What’s more, all live talks will be recorded, meaning you can  easily catch up if there are any clashes. 

Yes! Once every section of the programme is marked as  complete, you can download your certificate and show it off!

We understand that life happens and deadlines aren’t always  easy to meet. Luckily, most of our programmes are flexible and  can easily fit around your schedule. However, it’s still a good idea to check the specific start and end dates at the beginning of the  programme.

Though we recommend attending, if you can’t make a live talk,  don’t panic! A recording will be added within 24 hours of the  webinar’s end time.

What happens if I can’t make a live webinar?

You’ll definitely get the chance to ask questions, in fact, we  encourage it! Rather than using your microphone (it never goes  as smoothly as you expect, right?), simply type your question  using the chat function and the presenter will read it aloud.

Can I ask questions during webinars and do I need my 
microphone enabled?

Look, we get it, student life is busy! If you don’t finish your work  experience in time, there’s no need to worry! You’ll still have  access to the programme after its official end date.

Our programmes take up around ten hours of work in total,  usually spread over a two week period. So, before signing up to a  programme, perhaps think about how much time you’ve got to  spare and what other commitments you’ll have to work around

In this module Vodafone will take you through their philosophies around innovating mobile communication as well as the important processes for product and design.

Product, Innovation and Design

How do products evolve over time? And how do you position them in the market? In this module experts at Vodafone will help you explore these questions and more.

Product Development and Pricing

Taking a new product to market is a nerve-wracking and risky moment for every business, especially in a fast-paced, technology-driven market like mobile communication. Learn from the very best about how to plan and execute a successful product launch.

Product Launch

You'll hear all about the career opportunities available at Vodafone and what to do now so your CV and cover letter stands out later! You'll also get to hear from a junior employee who is just starting their career at Vodafone as well as their top tips.

Early Careers at Vodafone

Whether it's catching up with a grandparent, following directions to a party or closing a business deal with colleagues in China, the list of uses for mobile communication is practically endless! Learn from experts at the forefront of innovating the industry and jump into this Virtual Work Experience with Vodafone. Put your thinking cap on and go big, the future of communication is here.

Lorin Minxhozi

Adam Rodgers

Amy Hoare

We've worked with some awesome employers on our Vodafone Virtual Work Experience. Check out some of our speakers.

In this programme you'll dive deep into the product side of the business with a strong emphasis on innovation, development and bringing to market. You'll gain an understanding of how these different business processes link together to sustain an innovative company like Vodafone and finish by learning more about potential early careers with them.

This was an amazing experience. First of all, thank you for all the hard work you put into creating this! This was really and truly an amazing experience for me to take part in. I loved every module in this programme, and the experience each one gave me. Unlike other virtual work experiences I've taken part in, this one successfully made me feel like I was a part of the company, made me feel like Vodafone was home. And I liked that feeling, that even though this was just a work experience, It made me feel like pursuing a career path with Vodafone would be just the thing for me, and this feeling of consolidation in what I want, especially in a time of such uncertainty, is euphoric. I really can't thank you enough for all the hard work you did to prepare this programme and hopefully I'll manage to thank you in person. Finally, a big special thanks to everyone who ran the webinars!

Briany

I would like to personally thank all your effort, dedication to giving us the required and extra details of information, covering almost, if not all the topics that myself and others were curious and worried about and for doing this when you probably have a large workload yourself. You may not feel it, but I for one feel ecstatic to know that there are companies such as Vodafone out there that can give wonderful opportunities to us , with members of staff this informative out there and I am grateful for all that you have each done to make this programme experience an exceptional one. Best of luck to all of you in your futures!!!

Mohhamed

I would like to say thank you very much for taking your time to create an amazing work experience for me and others to participate in. The activites were well thought out and it really showed how much time and effort you put into your activities and the virtual work experience as a whole. Greatly appreciate the work you put into the work experience and I will tell my friends about this amazing work experience if it ever happens again.

Nessrin

You’ll earn a certificate if you complete the
programme.

14-18 years old and live in London or Thames Valley, are welcome to apply.

Ever wondered how we get clean drinking water? Where does it come from? And where does the wastewater end up? The answer to all of these questions lies in the water cycle. We'll cover it all from flooding, wet weather, increasing populations, and weather patterns to managing pollution, pesticides, and nitrate. We'll then quiz you on what you've learnt, just to make sure you were paying attention!

The Water Cycle and Clean Water Treatment

How are Thames Water being more sustainable? We'll go into detail about how Thames Water is working hard to play their part in achieving the UN's 17 sustainable development goals. Want to hear about biodiversity too? This module has it all! In this module’s activity, you’ll have a go at designing the ultimate water efficient and sustainable home.

Sustainability at Thames Water

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, four areas that are key to the water industry and to companies like Thames Water. In this module we'll explain how STEM helps Thames Water revolutionise water treatment, from utilising cutting-edge technology to employing the best engineers to ensure processes go smoothly and safely. 

STEM at Thames Water

There’s a whole host of non-technical roles which are integral to day-to-day operations in Thames Water - we'll have a look at what these roles are and how to get them! In this module's activity, Thames Water needs you to write a pitch for a new campaign increasing public awareness on how their actions can prevent sewer blockages.

Digital, Finance, and Branding (Non-Technical Roles)

Discover the most under-represented and exciting field within the world of STEM. You may not expect it but Thames Water stands at the cutting edge of technology and leverage this to bring thousands upon thousands of people a real, tangible output in clean, drinking water. They cover a whole range of STEM careers, so this programme is suitable for anyone with a keen interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

Cheryl Atkinson

James Townsend

Students aged 14-18 and live in London or Thames Valley are welcome to apply

We've worked with some awesome employers on our Thames Water Virtual Work Experience. Check out some of our speakers.

On this Thames Water virtual work experience programme, you’ll discover how the UK’s largest water and wastewater service keeps our water safe and clean. You’ll learn about the water cycle, how wastewater and sewage treatment works, sustainability and science and engineering at Thames Water. You’ll explore the range of roles within the company, from opportunities in STEM and sustainability to digital, finance and branding.

Thank you so much for putting this all together! You've given me information I never knew, and boosted my confidence with the knowledge I knew already. I have a clearer view of my road ahead and how I will achieve it, so thank you again, for this great opportunity!

Denis

Thank you so much for taking your time to come and talk to us. I feel more confident about stepping into a work environment and I know loads of others feel the same

Ruby

Thank you for creating this program for us. It was very helpful as I got to understand the different skills that are important for working in the industry.

Ethan

This programme was very useful and helped me in understanding how the work world partially runs and explained what sort of skills a person needs. 

Muhhamad

I really enjoyed the activites and I learned a lot about employment. Thank you for creating this for students like me.

Sabrine

Thank you very much for education the young minds of the new generation.

Jack

This module will introduce you to the world of work, how to understand it, prepare for it and excel in it! We cover topics such as professional behaviour, boundaries, travelling to work and dressing for work.

The World of Work

This module will introduce you to support services and the jobs within this area. We’ll explore jobs in areas such as admin and clerical, domestic services and the wider support team.

Support Services

In this module, we’ll take a look at the main admin and clerical roles, including receptionist and administrator.

Admin and Clerical

In this one, we’re diving into the world of nursing and midwifery. We’ll explore the different types of nursing - from mental health to children’s nursing - before taking a look at midwifery and the roles available here

Nursing and Midwifery

This module will see us cover all things AHP - that means Allied Health Professional! We’ll discover who the Allied Health Professionals are and how to become one - before we dive into some specific AHP jobs.

This module will focus on medicine, why you should study it, the different medical jobs and how you can become a medical professional.

Now, a look at what it’s like to work for the NHS, including NHS values, perfecting your interview skills and what it was like to work for the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic

Working for the NHS

This will be a module dedicated to specific pathways within Dudley. We’ll take a close look at various careers in this area, including apprenticeships!

Curious about careers in healthcare? We’ve got just the programme for you… Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust’s ‘Inspiring Our Future Workforce Programme’ will introduce you to a range of healthcare careers, from admin and clerical, to midwifery and nursing. You’ll also learn about the world of work, Dudley Group’s pathways into employment and more! We’ll give you the chance to complete activities, quizzes and live webinars, too.

Students who live in Dudley, aged 14-25 are welcome to apply

Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust - Inspiring Our Future Workforce Programme

You’ll learn all about the world of work, what it’s like to work within several departments in the NHS – including medicine, support services, admin and clerical and midwifery – and how to get career ready. For a more detailed look into this programme’s modules, take a look at the module breakdown below…

In the food and drinks industry, things can change pretty quickly - every new product and decision that’s made has a lot of consideration behind it. So, what goes into this change, and product development at Pret? From looking at what drives change to an overview of product development, including an insight into essential considerations, this module will introduce you to what product development is really like! 

The Pace of Change

Have you ever wondered where ideas and innovation comes from? Well, this module will lift the lid on exactly what goes on, and bring you closer to the development stages. From looking at what makes a great idea to where innovation can come from, this module will give you everything you need to know about product ideation at Pret. 

Ideation

It’s amazing seeing an idea come to life, but there’s often a few processes that come along the way, with the occasional misstep too! Staying on track and keeping a close eye on project management is key to bringing a project to life. This module will look at the teams, roles and responsibilities involved in development feedback, project management, and timelines. There’ll even top tips that’ll help you stay on track, and get your idea closer to reality.  

Development

From recipe development to ingredient sourcing, this module will provide you with valuable insight into all things pricing at Pret. After learning more about the teams, roles and processes involved at different stages of development and sourcing, you’ll get a taste of how to ascertain the cost of a product from ingredients and how they’re sourced through a costing tutorial, before hearing more from leading industry professionals offering bonus tips, hints and pathway information in a live webinar. You’ll finish off the module with an immersive costing activity.

Pricing

What is marketing? How are marketing channels used? What’s needed to create a stand-out marketing campaign? This module aims to answer all of these questions and more! Once you’ve brushed up on the 7Ps of marketing and explored the rise of digital marketing, you’ll find out more about Pret’s marketing strategy, completing the module with an activity all about planning your very own product launch.

Marketing

You might not realise it, but branding is an integral part of any company’s image and how it’s perceived by customers. In this module, you’ll delve deeper into the fascinating world of branding and packaging. After a whistle-stop tour of key brand elements for Pret, you’ll take a closer look at how branding and packaging have evolved over time. You’ll even learn about key visual considerations, and how the right elements help create the characteristics of all Pret packaging! Using everything you’ve learnt - including top tips and advice shared in the live webinar - you’ll have a go at designing your own eye-catching packaging.

Branding and Packaging

So, it’s finally time to launch a product - what happens now? This module will take you through an overview of ‘launch day’ and the different teams involved in this exciting stage. From an overview of how products are presented and talked about to how they are incorporated into current offerings and served, you’ll also learn more about ‘point of sale’. To explore this in more detail, you’ll hear from industry professionals in a live webinar, before having a go at adding your own notes about launch day to your designs.

Store Roll Out

Pret is one of the most recognisable names on the high street, and is a staple of millions of people’s day. With their freshly made food and organic coffee, they have pushed high street food offerings forward towards a healthier, more considered and sustainable future! But, how much do you really know about Pret, and what it takes for some of our favourite food and drink items to become reality? Well, we’ve got you covered! Springpod and Pret have joined forces to give you a top insight into the world of product development. What’s more, you’ll even have the chance to have a go at designing a new product yourself - and it might even end up on the shelves! 

Students in year 10-13 are welcome to apply!

An opportunity to create the next Prét product!

Gain meaningful work experience