What happens after I submit my application?
We will review your application to ensure that this has been completed correctly. If we can accommodate your request, then you will be contacted to see if you wish to take up the opportunity of a placement.
How long will it take for a decision to be made on my application?
Due to the volume of application forms we receive; it can sometimes take a while to review them all. We aim to give you a response within six weeks of receiving your application. If you do not hear from us, then your application on this occasion has been unsuccessful.
Unsuccessful applications
An unsuccessful application can be because you have failed to supply us with the information needed to access your application.
My school is doing a work experience week, and I need to have my placement details confirmed in advance, but the dates aren’t available yet. What should I do?
We open and close applications according to volume. If your application form has been successful, we will ensure all your clearances are done 3 to 6 weeks before commencing placement. You can show your school the acceptance email as confirmation that a placement has been offered.
Do you work with my school?
We have a list of schools we usually work with, but we will still consider your application form if your school is not on the list.
We give priority to schools within a 5 mile radius of each of our hospitals:
- Good Hope Hospital
- Heartlands Hospital
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham
- Solihull Hospital
Which year groups are eligible for work experience?
Pupils from years 10 to 11 who have an interest in working within a healthcare setting are eligible to apply for our “Insight into the NHS” work experience. Once the dates have been arranged, we email out to the local schools with this information and open applications. We do not offer hands on experience for years 10 & 11.
Pupils in year 12 and 13 can apply for a hands-on work experience via an online application form.
All placements are subject to availability, and completing a form does not guarantee you a placement.
Will I be able to shadow a healthcare professional?
From year 12 and up you can apply via the online application form.
What should I expect from work experience?
For years 10 and 11, we offer a one day Insight into the NHS event where we aim to provide guest speakers from different professions within healthcare.
You can also expect to see the following on the programme:
- Question and answer sessions with healthcare professionals
- Interactive workshops
- Videos
- Quizzes
- VR
- Career Carousel
- Information stands
The programme is subject to change and content will depend on who is available at the time.
Years 12 and 13 will vary depending on the department requested.
Will there be any one-to-one sessions with the guest speakers?
Unfortunately, the guest speakers will only have time to address the whole group but there is the opportunity to talk to the stand holders if you have any further questions.
Will I receive a reference for attending work experience?
In your information email that is sent out is a student placement diary, which we encourage you to complete and get signed off each day. This is your proof of placement. If you will require a reference, we advise you seek prior approval from your supervisor and obtain this before you leave your placement.
Will all the guest speakers have medical roles within the NHS?
No. There are around 350 different roles within the NHS, so our aim is to showcase as many of these career paths and roles so it equips you with an understanding of careers to make informed choices about your future aspirations, so speakers may be from any staff group.
Are there any restrictions?
If you're in year 10 to 13 and are under 18 then you will need to obtain permission from a responsible adult, guardian or parent to take part in work experience.
Due to the nature of the topics, we cover, some of our videos may contain content that you might find upsetting.
Last reviewed: 22 May 2025