My son currently turned 16 and therefore registered in the system and can work! Today he went to do just that for the first time and I am incredibly proud of him and also excited and hopeful.

His work experience is unpaid and I put loads of effort into making this happen, its not probably what he would like to do but what he is there for is a reality check ;) And obviously skills, knowledge and behaviour – I am sure he will learn a lot. Fingers crossed for him to last a week without major resistance and rebellion – small wins.

Update after a week: He did the whole week – 9-4…like a soldier. Did what he was asked to do, stood waiting, observing, shadowing, eventually was given tasks which he enjoyed. Saw the blacksmiths forge metal, saw the conservation, restoration, chemical alchemy, made a mould for a leaf, pained metal bars. Only it went too quickly!