The Town of Bristol, in partnership with the Bristol-Warren Regional School District (BWRSD), has established a Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program to better connect students with the local business community. Through these work-based learning experiences, students are able to explore different career opportunities, apply their coursework, and provide a benefit to the local economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Work-Based Learning?
Work-Based Learning is an educational program that combines classroom teachings with real-world work experiences and allows students to apply/develop their skills. Work-based learning opportunities can be customized based on a business’s specific needs and include:
- Internships
- Apprenticeships
- Project-Based Assignments
What is Work-Based Learning?
Work-Based Learning is an educational program that combines classroom teachings with real-world work experiences and allows students to apply/develop their skills. Work-based learning opportunities can be customized based on a business’s specific needs and include:
- Internships
- Apprenticeships
- Project-Based Assignments
What are the steps my business needs to take as part of the Work-Based Learning program?
- Contact Dr. Nicole Lyons to receive the Work-Based Learning educational requirements.
- Craft the Work-Based Learning job description or project outline.
- Post the Work-Based Learning opportunity to the Propel job board.
- After interviewing and selecting a student, contact Dr. Nicole Lyons to coordinate scheduling (if it’s during school hours) and complete onboarding paperwork.
- Complete an evaluation of the student following completion of the WBL assignment.
- Complete a survey of the WBL program experience for future improvements.
What is the cost to provide a Work-Based Learning opportunity?
While there is no cost to provide a Work-Based Learning opportunity, the Town encourages businesses to compensate students for their time and contribution.
By providing compensation, businesses often get more applicants, see an increase in worker productivity, and receive a boost in brand image.
Compensation can include but is not limited to:
- Work-Based Learning Credits
- Stipends
- Hourly Pay
Are there incentives available to businesses that provide compensation for Work-Based Learning students?
Yes! Through the State of Rhode Island’s Work Immersion Program, businesses may be eligible for reimbursement of salary expenses. Conditions apply. Please visit the Workforce Board’s website to learn more.
How can I promote Work-Based Learning opportunities to students?
Propel East Bay RI is an online job board dedicated to promoting work opportunities in Bristol County, Rhode Island. Work-Based Learning opportunities are free to post and allow students to directly see and apply to business listings.
Work Ready Think Tank
In partnership with the East Bay Chamber of Commerce Education Sub-Committee, Bristol-Warren Regional School District, Town of Bristol, and Highlander School, this networking series was started to help bridge the gap between local business needs and student learning objectives to provide students with more meaningful real-world learning opportunities that support the local economy.
The Work Ready Think Tank event is held twice per year (Fall and Spring semesters). For more information on the event series, please contact BWRSD’s Dr. Nicole Lyons at [email protected].
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