Ensure a minimum wage for work experience which is educationally mandatory

25
signatures
openDepartment for Educationby Lewis BlackOpened 15 May 2026

Background

I want the Government to make employers pay their work experience interns (e.g. a T-Level, BTEC, etc.). I believe that this would give students a more realistic view of working, be motivational & encourage qualifications other than A-Levels. This wage can be at level lower than the minimum wage.

Additional details

Students on vocational qualifications like T-Levels and BTECs must complete work placements as part of their course, yet unlike apprentices, they receive no pay despite contributing real work. We believe this is financially unfair and discourages students from choosing vocational routes over A-Levels. A reduced minimum wage for placement students would make these qualifications more attractive, support students financially, and give them a genuine experience of working life.

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Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 767802.