McDonald’s becomes first employer to provide national qualification for work experience
Young people who complete work experience placements at McDonald’s will have the opportunity to gain a GCSE-equivalent qualification that recognises their work skills and achievements. The move comes as young people seek job opportunities in a fiercely competitive jobs market, and a new poll of 2,000 14-19 year olds reveals that quality work experience has become a CV must-have for UK teens.

According to the survey, commissioned by McDonald’s, more than eight in ten (86 per cent) of young people said a strong academic record is no longer enough to guarantee a good job, and 81 per cent agreed that high-quality work experience gives young people the employment edge. Those polled also expressed strong support for work experience qualifications: 86 per cent agreed that work experience is more valuable if it leads to a national qualification proving workplace skills.

Announcing the qualification at the Institute for Education Business Excellence (IEBE) conference in Birmingham on 11th March David Fairhurst, Chief People Officer, McDonald’s UK & Northern Europe, will said:

‘This is the first time a work experience programme has been aligned to a nationally-recognised qualification, and at McDonald’s we believe it has the potential to raise the expectations of employers, educators and students alike.

‘Whether people join McDonald’s for two weeks’ work experience or a full-time job, the aim is helping them build their confidence, gain transferable qualifications and fulfil their potential. Now, a placement will give young people on-the-job experience in a fast-paced business environment, a great set of all-round skills for any workplace, and a national qualification to increase their employability.’