Work-based learning provides students experiential learning opportunities that align to a student’s current coursework and expressed career area of interest. Work-based learning helps students apply and extend classroom learning, gain motivation, explore careers and develop an understanding of the work environment.

Chesterfield County Public Schools is dedicated to having all students participate in multiple work-based learning experiences in order to affirm their career pathways. These experiences include, but are not limited to, guest speakers, field trips, informational interviews, job shadowing, service-learning projects, internships, apprenticeships and cooperative education. 

Work-based learning experiences allow students to further develop 21st-century skills (6 C’s: critical thinking skills, collaboration skills, communication skills, creative thinking skills, citizen skills and connection skills), grow their professional network and gain vital on-the-job experiences related to their coursework.