Students at Melksham Oak Community School have been given an insight into the world of work, as 30 local employers gave up their time for realistic mock interviews.

During lessons 200 students produced CVs, application forms and covering letters in preparation for a 30 minute interview with representatives from the local business community. The young ‘applicants’ were required to arrive for school as if dressed for an interview, and were given verbal and written feedback on the whole process.

The scheme was organised by Education Business Partnership South West.

Jenny Addleton, work related learning co-ordinator at Melksham Oak Community School said, “The event was a positive experience for the students and they can now face the future with a lot more confidence.”

Feedback from the employers involved was also positive; Duncan Priddle of Atkins Global said: “I was impressed by the students’ honesty and positive professional attitude during all interviews, for some, their first experience of the interview process.

“It was evident considerable thought had been taken when the students produced their cover letters & CVs, all of which would not have looked out of place in the working environment.”

Event co-ordinator Julie Hall said: “We work with schools and businesses across the region to develop activities that really do raise the motivation and achievement of young people.

“Experiences gained during events like mock interviews help students prepare for the increasingly competitive process of job hunting.”