By Aristos Constantinou, Career Counselor – Carruca Consultants Ltd (Member of CAEC)
Introduction
One of the most important decisions that students are called upon to make is the choice of the profession they wish to pursue in the future, which is naturally linked to the field they intend to follow for their undergraduate studies. This decision can be supported through the acquisition of knowledge about potential professions that interest them. This can be achieved either through online information or through practical training with potential employers, where students will have the opportunity to observe professions in practice.
The Ministry of Education reinstates the Work Experience Week scheme
The Work Experience Week scheme had been abolished several years ago for various reasons. This programme will be reinstated during the 2025–2026 school year, and students attending the second grade of upper secondary education (Year 11) are expected to participate. The programme will take place from 18/02/2026 until 03/04/2026.
How the Programme will operate
The programme will be divided into two phases. On the one hand, students will be placed with employers outside the school for three consecutive days, within the above-mentioned timeframe. On the other hand, students will attend relevant briefings and seminars at school for a total of two days.
The Role of Parents / Guardians
Parents / guardians of students are called upon to undertake the role of finding employers with whom their children will be placed during the three-day period determined by the student’s secondary school, based on the rotating schedule, and by providing their consent.
For students for whom it is not possible to secure an employer, placements will be arranged by the Ministry of Education, with the consent of the parents / guardians, in positions offered by employers who have expressed interest in participating in the programme.
Remuneration
Students who complete the Work Experience Week programme, namely the three-day placement with an employer and the two days of seminar attendance at their school, will earn 5 credits within the DDG programme. In addition, a relevant allowance will be paid to their parents / guardians by the Ministry of Education.
Conclusion
It is a fact that upper secondary school students lack sufficient knowledge about professions. This undoubtedly makes the decision-making process regarding their future professional and academic choices more difficult. Certainly, the reinstatement of the Work Experience Week scheme by the Ministry of Education, which should be welcomed, comes to support students by offering them a very valuable experience—an experience that students and their parents / guardians should make the most of. Proper guidance will help students develop self-awareness and make more informed professional and academic choic