Sainsbury’s has launched a new work experience programme, KickStarter, that will create ~10,000 opportunities over the next year for young people to develop skills, build confidence and gain insight into future careers.

Rather than offering a traditional single week of work experience to career starters, the scheme will include a series of hands-on experiences over time – from practical skills sessions, meeting colleagues and store visits – to build confidence and provide a “proper feel” for the world of work.

The programme will be run by Sainsbury’s Early Careers Team, colleagues, stores and Store Support Centres and will bring together two connected pathways designed to support young people at different stages of their journey.

Available to those aged between 14–18 year-old, the KickStarter Explore programme offers in-school learning and practical work experience to build confidence and workplace skills, allowing career starters to discover the roles available within the retail sector.

Meanwhile, KickStarter Insights, open to 16–24 year-olds, offers regional employability workshops to strengthen communication skills, prepare for interviews and help take their next step into work.

“Too many young people are growing up without access to meaningful work experience, often because they cannot find the right connections or network.”

“Like so many of us, I started my working life at 16 and know first-hand how much getting that first job really matters,” said Simon Roberts, Sainsbury’s Chief Executive. 

“Few things matter more than helping young people get on that first rung on the career ladder. With a quarter of our colleagues under 25, we see every day how much a first job can change lives,” Roberts added.

More than 5,000 places will be delivered through Sainsbury’s KickStarter Explore and over 200 through KickStarter Insights in addition to a further 5,000 opportunities delivered through Sainsbury’s other work placement programmes.