The UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES), has published a new guide designed to dispel the myths surrounding work experience and highlight the vital role it can play for young people desperate to get a foot on the career ladder.

The report, titled 'not just making tea: reinventing work experience', highlights “common misconceptions” surrounding the benefits of work experience and the value it can present to both employers and young people.

The publication follows the latest findings from UKCES, based on interviews with over 90,000 employers, which revealed that the main reason employers think young people are unprepared for work is a lack of experience.

Julie Kenny, UKCES commissioner, said: “Work experience is far more than tea rounds and photocopying: it’s about giving young people of all ages the skills, confidence and experience they need to progress into meaningful jobs. As employers, we are best placed to offer young people these opportunities”.