In a new initiative for Laude San Pedro, Year 10 Mastering English Pathway students (our EAL programme) were offered a unique opportunity to explore the world of work as part of their curriculum. This immersive experience, deeply enriched by the active involvement of the International Friends of Laude (IFL) parent group, involved crafting CVs, writing letters of application, and developing essential job skills and experiences. The unwavering support and engagement of the parent community were crucial in transforming this project into a remarkable educational experience.

The Preparation Phase:

The project began with the students learning the fundamental components of job applications. We guided them through the intricacies of creating a compelling CV and writing persuasive cover letters. Emphasis was placed on clear communication, proper spelling and punctuation, and the overall presentation of their documents.

The real magic, however, stemmed from the IFL parent group. These parents, representing diverse professional backgrounds, enthusiastically collaborated to write job adverts for real positions within their businesses. Their dedication ensured that the adverts were tailored to be suitable for entry-level roles, providing students with practical and relevant opportunities.

The Interview Day:

The culmination of this project was the interview day, a morning filled with anticipation and excitement. Students arrived dressed in professional interview attire, ready to face their interviewers. The IFL parent group, now acting as interviewers, conducted one-on-one interviews with the students who had applied for the various roles.

Each student had the chance to present themselves and discuss their qualifications, much like in a real job interview. The interviewers provided immediate feedback, covering a range of aspects:

• CV and Letter Presentation: Feedback on the overall look and feel of their application documents, emphasising the importance of a professional appearance.
• Spelling and Punctuation: Detailed critiques on their use of language, highlighting areas for improvement to ensure clear and error-free communication.
• Body Language: Insights into non-verbal cues, such as eye contact, posture, and handshake, which are crucial in making a positive impression.
• Overall Impression: General advice on how to improve their presentation and confidence during an interview.

The Power of Parental Involvement:

The strength and dedication of the parent community were instrumental in the success of this project. Their involvement went beyond mere participation; they played a pivotal role in providing real-world insights and professional standards that elevated the entire learning experience. For the students, receiving feedback from professionals who were also their parents’ peers made the exercise profoundly impactful.

One student remarked, “it was really eye-opening to get feedback from someone who actually hires people. It made me realise what employers are looking for and how I can improve.”

One IFL interviewed stated, “my son is in Year 12 and he has never had this type of experience; we should be doing this for all students, every year”

We observed a significant boost in the students’ confidence and engagement. The practical application of their skills in a real-world context reinforced the importance of effective communication and professional presentation. This transformation was a direct result of the dedicated involvement of the parent community.

This initiative exemplified the profound impact of community involvement in education. The active participation of the IFL parent group not only bridged the gap between education and the world of work but also provided students with invaluable insights and skills. By integrating real-world experiences into the curriculum, supported by a strong and engaged parent community, schools can better prepare students for the future. The collaboration between the Year 10 students, us as their teachers, and the IFL parent group created a dynamic and enriching learning environment, showcasing the incredible power of parental involvement in education.