It's a tough job but someone has to do it....... cup cakes and cute animals needed me!

For the last two weeks Year 10 Waldegrave students have been on work experience including me.

It was fantasic opportunity to learn about the world of work, areas of interest and the discipline of getting to work on time. I was very lucky to work at an amazing, lively vetinary surgery in Barnes for one week and then a week at the Kath Kidsonesque 'Cake Box' a small, popular cake decorating shop in Hampton. The Vets was incredibly interesting and no two minutes were the same. I helped with consulations, looked after animals that required a stay and was allowed to watch major operations. The staff were helpful and keen to give me lots of opportunities. The Cake Box gave me lots of customer interactions. I sold products and I led cake carft workshops for adults and children. It was amazing to be working and also to be learning new skills as well. My ribbon roses were brilliant.

I believe that all students should be given the opportunity to have at least a week of work experience. It gives students like me a chance to experience a working enviroment, it gives us an insight into how many or how little people can be involved in a certain work place and most importantly it helps students decide if they want to persue a carree in their chosen work experience.

My placements gave me a real insight into two different types of job and helped me compare pros and cons of each. Now I just have to think of a way to combine the two - have my cake and eat it!

By Jemima Hogg Waldegrave School