Work experience at KCC
Work experience is a valuable opportunity to explore the world of work, develop practical skills, and gain insight into potential career paths. At Kent County Council, we offer placements designed to help students build confidence, learn from professionals, and understand how local government supports communities across Kent.
What is work experience?
Work experience is a short-term placement that allows you to spend time in a real working environment. You’ll observe, learn, and sometimes take part in tasks alongside experienced staff. It’s a chance to:
- explore your career options
- develop transferable skills like communication and teamwork
- gain insight into how local government operates
- boost your CV and future applications.
About Kent County Council
We are one of the largest employers in Kent, delivering a wide range of services that support people and communities across the county. From education and social care to highways and environmental protection, our teams work in diverse roles that make a real impact.
We offer placements in areas such as:
- business support
- roads and travel
- IT and digital services
- communications
- environmental services
- libraries and heritage
- and many more!
Explore our services
Before applying for a work placement, we encourage you to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how our services support people and communities across Kent. Understanding our work will help you choose a placement that matches your interests and ensures you get the most from your experience. To discover the full range of our services and find out what interests you, visit our main website.
Why telling us your preference matters
We have a limited number of placements. Letting us know the type of placement you’re looking for and why, helps us match you to a suitable team so your experience is meaningful and relevant.
Eligibility criteria
You can register you interest for work experience with us if you:
- live in a Kent County Council local authority area. Medway Council residents have a separate work experience scheme
- go to school, college or university in Kent
- are aged 14 or above.
Some placements may require additional checks or restrictions depending on the role.
Applications for work experience are closed for this academic year. We are currently reviewing the applications we've received.
Pay
Work experience is unpaid work offered to students. You won't get paid and we won't reimburse any expenses.
Hours
Your manager will work with you to decide your working hours. You won't work for more than 8 hours a day and you won't start before 7am or finish after 7pm.
You will only have to work up to 5 days in a row out of 7. You'll have breaks throughout the day.
Looking after you
When you start your placement, we'll give you a point of contact. They will be responsible for you and will make sure you understand what's expected. They'll also be available to give you support and guidance when you need it. Your contact will introduce you to their work and involve you in relevant tasks.
Health and safety
The health and safety of everyone who works at KCC is our priority. Before you start your placement, we'll assess and mitigate any risks.
Your school, college or university should also conduct a health and safety check to make sure they're happy that the environment is safe.
Get in touch
If you need more information, email workplacements2@kent.gov.uk .
We can't accept requests for work experience via this email address.