Futures Unlocked is an exciting three‑year pilot programme delivering high‑quality Modern Work Experience to young people across London. Running from 2025 to 2028, this programme supports young people from Years 8 to 10 to build their career readiness year-on-year through meaningful encounters with the world of work.
This programme is by The Careers & Enterprise Company (CEC) through the Future Ready Fund. Futures Unlocked responds to the Government’s Modern Work Experience Guarantee.
What will you do on the programme?
Building on the CEC Equalex Framework, Futures Unlocked is designed to support young people develop their career readiness over time, rather than through a one‑off experience.
Young people will join the programme in Year 8 and continue through Year 9 and Year 10, completing at least 10 days of meaningful work experience across the three years, plus pre and post programme activities to support their engagement. See below for a full spread of work experience days across the three years:
- Year 8 – Two days between February – July 2026
- Year 9 – Four days spread across the academic year
- Year 10 – Four days together in a work experience block
Throughout the programme, those enrolled will encounter a wide range of jobs, sectors and workplaces, with opportunities tailored to their interests and aspirations.
If you are a business and would like to support young people to explore their future careers, please complete the Expression of Interest form at the bottom of this page.
Who it’s for?
Futures Unlocked is designed to close equity gaps in career readiness, supporting young Londoners who face barriers to accessing work experience.
The programme supports those who:
- Attend mainstream schools
- Are eligible for Free School Meals
- Have a Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND)
How can you get involved?
- If you are a young person: unfortunately, recruitment for this programme is now closed.
- If you are a business: employers play a vital role in the delivery of Futures Unlocked. For further information on how you can get involved, please see the following information.
Businesses
Businesses can get involved in a range of ways, including:
- Facilitating industry‑specific skills workshops
- Taking part in panel discussions
- Hosting employer visits
- Acting as a mentor
- Sponsoring programme events
- Volunteering time to support activities and sessions
Sculpt works closely with schools and employer partners to ensure experiences are well‑planned, accessible and supportive for all participants.
If you would like to know further information, please complete this Expression of Interest form and a member of the Futures Unlocked team will be in touch.
