Year 10 Work Experience Week: Gaining Real-World Insights

My name is Olivia May, and I completed my work experience at KSPCA, a local animal shelter. I specifically chose this placement to gain practical experience in animal care, as I am considering a future career in this field. During the week, my responsibilities included cleaning animal enclosures, sweeping and mopping floors, washing food bowls, dusting bedding, and feeding the animals. The majority of our time was spent caring for cats, which allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of their daily needs and well-being. This experience was both enriching and insightful, helping me build confidence, adapt to new challenges, and strengthen essential skills for the workplace.

Olivia May

Exploring HR at LWF – My Work Experience

For my work experience, I chose to spend a week in the Human Resources (HR) department at the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) in Nairobi — a humanitarian organisation focused on refugee support, education, and human rights. I picked LWF because of its impact-driven work and selected HR specifically to explore my interest in business and people management.

Each day, I joined the HR team and observed tasks like updating staff records, onboarding processes, and a virtual interview. The team was friendly and made me feel included. I gained skills in accuracy, confidentiality, and communication, and grew more confident navigating a professional setting.

A highlight was the team-building event at Maasai Lodge in Rongai, near Nairobi National Park. It was a fun day filled with activities and gave me the chance to interact with staff beyond the office.

This experience changed how I view work — it showed me that the workplace can be both productive and collaborative. I now feel more inspired to explore a career in HR or business.

My advice to others: Take initiative and stay open to learning — every experience counts.

Liya Getachew

My work experience at Helint Aviation.

During my work experience at Helint Aviation, I was inspired by my ambition to become both a pilot and an engineer. This placement provided a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the aviation industry, fostering both personal and professional growth. Although I didn’t have a set routine of daily tasks, the environment itself was a powerful learning space. Engaging in conversations, especially with the hangar foreman, opened my eyes to the dedication and expertise required in aviation. This interaction not only deepened my interest but also helped me reflect on my goals and the commitment needed to achieve them.

Through this experience, I discovered how demanding yet rewarding a career in aviation can be. Realising that becoming a pilot and engineer is not a common feat was initially challenging, but it sparked resilience and determination within me. I learned that perseverance and an open mindset are essential in overcoming obstacles. This journey reshaped my perspective on career paths, emphasising the value of hard work and passion. For students embarking on their work experience, I encourage embracing every moment with curiosity and an eagerness to grow—each experience holds the potential to shape your future aspirations profoundly.

Nathan Njenga

I completed a week of work experience at V&S Design Studio, an interior design firm based around specific clientele. I chose V&S from a list of options as I am strongly interested in designing and creating. I've always been interested in this type of work as I take BTEC product design, a subject that I spend a lot of time and effort on when it comes to perfecting my work. My work placement gave me the opportunity to be exposed to the design industry.

My days started from 9 am - 2:30 pm, with the rest of the team, as I was talked through my tasks of the day. I learned multiple skills like picking a selection of paints and furniture from new and old catalogues, or learning how elevation and floor plan diagrams of areas were and should be designed. A challenge I faced during my work experience was that when it came to making professional spreadsheets used for clients, I didn't know how it should be laid out. After reviewing the correct layout with my supervisor, I could continue my tasks without having to redo them. Before this experience, I thought interior design was mostly about designing floor plans and how rooms should look/make a person feel. Now I realize how much strategy and planning goes into it. It made me consider studying it at university.

My advice for other students who may have work experience is: don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions, and even if a task seems small, take it seriously. My work experience at V&S gave me a clearer sense of direction and a new level of confidence in my creativity. It reassured me that I want to be part of something that has a wide creative outlet with endless ideas and projects, and it gave me tools I’ll carry into whatever I do next.

Danika Patel 10H

From textbook to test tubes - my work experience at Mp Shah Hospital

I undertook my work experience at MP Shah Hospital, and from the very first day, I felt a mix of emotions. I was excited — proud to finally say, “I’m going to work!” It gave me this adult feeling like I was stepping into a whole new world. But I was also nervous, unsure of what to expect.

As soon as the day started though, I began to feel at ease. Everything fell into place, the staff were welcoming, and it was easy for me to fit in. I went with the flow — and by the end of the day, I was already looking forward to what the next ones would bring.

Day 1: Pediatrics and Lab

I started off in the lab — and wow, it was exciting! I learned the names of different equipment like the centrifuge and chemical analyser. I even took my own blood test (scary, but so worth it). I watched it dry, stained it, and then viewed it under the microscope. It was amazing to actually see red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets from my own blood! Big thanks to Orina who helped me through that.

Next, I went to the procedure room. I was lucky to observe a nurse injecting a young boy and giving him a nebuliser. I must say — the kid was brave. That injection looked painful!

I also learned how nurses check vitals for babies and young kids, and how they question the patients and parents. From toddlers to six-year-olds — I watched them all. What a day!

Day 2: Radiology

This day was packed with new machines: MRI, CT scan, mammogram, ultrasound, and X-ray.

In the X-ray room (thanks to Felix), I saw a broken humerus and a spinal implant — so fascinating. Then came the ultrasound: I got to hear the heartbeat of an unborn baby boy! Apparently, he even had a nose bone, which is not that common.

During the mammogram (thanks Maureen!), I learned why the breast is compressed — to get a clear image of all layers. It looked uncomfortable, but now I understand its importance.

The CT scan (shoutout to Anne!) took me through cases like ulcers, trauma from a punch, and even TB. I learned how contrast is used and how IVs help scan the body in more detail.

Finally, the MRI — I got to see a brain scan. It was surreal!

Day 3: Pathology

This department opened my eyes to the behind-the-scenes magic. After signing terms and conditions, I got a full tour.

I started with sample collection and blood-taking and haematology.Thanks to my previous lab experience, this part was a breeze. In Biochemistry, I met an intern, Alex, who explained those huge, complex machines — very intimidating but impressive.

Then came my favourite: Microbiology. Okay, yes — it was a bit gross — but SO interesting. I saw bacteria growing from urine and stool samples, learned about cultures and broths (some even made from sheep blood!), and how bacteria is identified in machines and under microscopes. Technology is honestly growing faster than we are! I must thank Reagan for the wonderful explanations and talk through about each process!

Last stop: Histology. I got to witness how biopsies are stored and analysed. It was a long process, but seeing real biopsy samples was something I’ll never forget.

What I Learned:

How to communicate with professionals, kids, and their parents

How different the real world is from school life

To be patient, focused, and precise

The importance of teamwork and timekeeping

That science is so much more exciting when it’s alive and real

This experience has inspired me to take on more opportunities like this. I loved every bit of it — and I’m so excited to say: watch this space for my next placement at an architectural firm!

Dhara Shah