Coventry pupils took their call for better work experience opportunities to Parliament earlier this week, meeting government ministers face to face.
The group of 13 to 17-year-olds from Blue Coat and Barrs Hill secondary schools travelled to Westminster to tell ministers that work experience is too often out of reach for young people, and too often depends on who you know rather than what you know.
They met Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith and Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden to share their experiences of being turned away by employers.
Angel described the catch-22 many young people face, with employers asking for experience while turning away anyone under 18, saying:
“It's like you've closed that door before we can even touch the handle.”
Ibrahim said: "We were telling Jacqui that we need to make work experience work for us. Getting more industry to accept us at our age will be pivotal for us.”
Jaya added: “Our generation is seeing so many changes in the world. If we don't get that experience hands-on now, we won’t be able to understand it in the future. We got some points across, but one foot in the door is only one step. We want a bit more.”
Councillor Lynnette Kelly, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change, said: “These young people did Coventry proud.
“It takes real confidence to make your case to government ministers, and they did it with passion and clarity. They're right that work experience should be open to every young person, not just those with the right contacts.
“It’s often the first step towards a career, and it helps local businesses find the talented workforce they'll need in the future.”