Alex tries out Headmistress role at Sheffield High School

Sheffield High School pupil, sixteen year old Alex H. joined forces with Headmistress Mrs Valerie Dunsford as part of her post GCSE work experience last week, and both got more than they bargained for.

Alex, a Year 11 pupil, is interested in working in Human Resources and thought shadowing the Head for a week would give her an insight into behind the scenes of running a large organisation. Describing the experience, Alex said:

“It was fascinating going behind the scenes at school. I loved the variety of the job and the fact that no two days or hours are the same. Mrs Dunsford has to deal with so many different people – parents, pupils, teachers, external assessors. I never realised how much went on!”

This is the first time anyone has ever applied for work experience with the Headmistress who found the extra pair of hands a huge help.

“I thoroughly enjoyed Alex shadowing me for the week. It was so useful having her to help me get all my jobs done. Alex showed lots of initiative and resourcefulness and really became part of the team. She put together information packs for me for our upcoming trip and helped out at lots of the school events. I could really do with a full time mini-me so I can be in two places at once!”

All Year 11 pupils at Sheffield High School undertake two weeks of work experience following their GCSE exams. Supported by the school, girls are encouraged to explore careers they are interested in pursuing to help gain valuable experience and an insight into the working environment. Other work experience placements this year include Sheffield Theatres, Chatsworth House, Hunters Bar Veterinary Clinic and Rolls Royce Plc.