The workplace visit is part of the "Explore" pillar in the GoTeach framework. It is an opportunity for individuals or groups to gain firsthand experience and insight into a specific workplace environment. As such, a workplace visit is a guided tour of the business premises, offering more detailed information on the various business environments (operational and office surroundings), the type of work and general everyday activities. It involves giving students the opportunity to visit a company and see first-hand how it functions on a day-to-day basis. Furthermore, it offers an opportunity to interact with employees and ask questions.
A workplace visit can also focus on a specific area of the business only, depending on the objective of the workplace visit and the interest preferences of the students involved. Hands on activities can be part of such a visit as it helps students to gain a deeper understanding of any job specifics. Therefore, a workplace visit can help students to develop and enhance their skills and experience. You can also actively demonstrate your organization’s dedication to working with the local community and learn from the students you invite.
5.6.1 Objectives
The objectives of a workplace visit for the students are to:
- Gain insights on and a deeper understanding of the organization's operations, culture, and work environment
- Gain insights in a variety of different jobs and gender equality (i.e. women in leadership)
- Broaden the horizon on job opportunities within companies
- Learn about specific job roles, functions and processes within the workplace
- Connect with professionals and expand professional networks
- Gain motivation and inspiration by observing successful organizations in action
- Identify potential areas of interest/career in an industry/company
5.6.2 Target Audience
The target audience for this module are young people from vulnerable communities who are transitioning from school to the world of work. The students that benefit from this intervention are nominated by a national SOS Children’s Village or a Teach For All network partner.
5.6.3 Location
This would be in principle the volunteer’s workplace which can be either in an operational or an office environment or a combination. It depends on the student’s interest and learning need.
5.6.4 Duration
A workplace visit can vary in length from a few hours to an entire workday. This should be agreed upon between the visiting organization(s) and the volunteer(s).
5.6.5 Number of Attendees
A workplace visit is normally organized for a group of young people rather than a one-to-one visit.
The number of people in the group can vary depending on the location, agenda, visiting organization and should be aligned in advance.
5.6.6 Roles involved
In principle there are three roles involved:
- Workplace visitor: the student(s) that visits the location
- Coordinator: DHL employee that arranges and sets up the workplace visit for the student(s)
- Volunteer: DHL employee(s) that provides explanation on specific workplace areas
5.6.7 GoTeach Library Materials
More detailed insights and information on this activity can be found in the material from our GoTeach library below.
