Work-Based Learning

Work-Based Learning links the classroom to the real world. This offers students with disabilities knowledge, skills and experiences. They explore career options and develop tailored plans for the future.

What is Work-Based Learning? 

Work-based learning (WBL) provides students with a continuum of career related experiences that support their career goals and prepares them for education and employment beyond high school. In partnership with businesses and community organizations, WBL brings the classroom into the workplace and teaches students the skills employers are looking for. WBL is a key part of all Career and Transition Services (CTS) courses and programs. 

FCPS students can take part in activities related to career awareness, career exploration and career preparation through work-based learning. Examples of WBL are business tours, mentoring, job-shadowing, career and technical education, paid and nonpaid work experiences, and internships. 

Work-Based Learning Includes:

  • A range of experiences to help students form a career plan.
  • Planned experiences with links to classroom instruction.
  • Ongoing assessment and support from employers and instructional staff.
  • A choice of work experiences.
  • Clear outcomes linked to career planning.

Students Benefits

  • Establish a connection between school and work.
  • Find academic and career paths based on interests and talents.
  • Understand the “soft” skills needed for success in the workplace.
  • Build self-confidence and independence.
  • Build on academic skills related to certain jobs.
  • Learn more about the current job market.
  • Work with professional role models.
Career Awareness ActivitiesCareer Exploration ActivitiesCareer Preparation ActivitiesBusiness Partnerships

Learn more about Work-Based Learning

Contact Sue Eaton (571-423-4596) or follow us @FCPS_CTS on X, to learn more about work-based learning and sponsor a unique learning opportunity for students with disabilities at your workplace.

Related Pages

Four students in front of a large floor watertank

Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning (WBL) is a coordinated educational strategy that provides students with a continuum of career related experiences to support their career goals and prepare them for education and employment beyond high school.
a group of four teenage boys dressed in suits standing in front of buildings

Career Preparation Activities

Learn about work through work. Career preparation engages students in authentic learning experiences. Students develop soft and hard skills that they can take to the workplace as an adult.
adult male working with an adult female in an office

Career Exploration Activities

Learn about work through observation. Career exploration activities helps students connect with working professionals in the workplace. Students gain knowledge about pathways, employer expectations, and the skills for success.
Northern Virginia Community College table at a student fair

Career Awareness Activities

Learn about work through examination. Awareness activities help students to understand where and why people work. Students get a better understanding of workplace expectations and define personal interests and strengths.
three people standing and talking in a classroom

The Basics: A Guide to Hiring Student Interns

The High-Quality Work-Based Learning Internship Guide provides employers with everything they need to consider when developing and implementing a high school internship program. Included in the guide are sections covering the basics of creating internship positions, the hiring process, management…

Career and Transition Services Presentation

Presentation on FCPS Career and Transition Services (CTS) by Sarah Blake, Janelle Ellis and Trevor Christensen.