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Work-Based Learning & Student Opportunities

High School Work-Based Learning

High-Quality Work-Based Learning (HQWBL) ​is comprised of​ school-coordinated workplace experiences that are:

  • ​​related to students’ career goals and/or interests​,​​
  • integrated with instruction, and
  • ​​performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations. ​

There are 12 Work-based Learning experiences defined by the Virginia Department of Education.  They include: Job Shadowing, Service Learning, Externship, School-based Enterprise, Mentorship, Internship, Entrepreneurship, Cooperative Education, SAE, Clinical Experience, Youth Registered Apprenticeships, and Registered Apprenticeships.

Employability skills are essential, transferable abilities like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that are valuable across all jobs. They help individuals succeed in the workplace by enhancing adaptability and productivity. Click the link to watch videos that can help you build and strengthen your employability skills.

If you are seeking goods or services, please explore our Work-based Learning Partners and Career Awareness Facilitators. These organizations actively support Arlington Public Schools students in discovering potential career pathways.

Job Shadow Day 2024 video highlights Work-based Learning Job Shadowing

High School - Career Awareness, Internship and other Work-based Learning

9th - 11th Graders (Rising 10th-12th)

This Social Media Journalism experience is available for all APS students currently enrolled in grades 9-11.  Application Deadline is Friday, May 9, 2025.

thumbnail of UTF-8UPDATED APSYMG Summer 2025 Social Media Journalism Boot Camp Flyer

 

The ArlingTeens Leaders Summer Internship is a two-week experience designed allow you to explore potential careers.

thumbnail of Parks and Rec Internship

Teen Police Academy  For current 9-11th graders (Rising 10th-12th) interested in exploring a career in law enforcement. Application Deadline Sunday, May 4, 2025

Complete the Teen Police Academy Online Application

Police Academy Flyer

 

Forensic Science Experience Current 10th and 11th graders (Rising 11th and 12th graders) The ACPD Crime Scene Unit is hosting a week-long immersive program for rising high school seniors and juniors to explore how science and investigation come together to solve crimes. Application deadline Sunday, May 4, 2025

Complete the Forensic Science Experience Online Application

Forensics Summer Program flyer

 

12th Graders

This 12-week paid internship at Virginia Hospital Center (VHC) requires you be 18 years old.  Deadline to apply is Friday, May 23, 2025

thumbnail of VHC Summer Internship

High School Graduates

Career Connections in Virginia

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has an entire webpage dedicated to high school graduates seeking information on how to plan their post-secondary (after high school) journey.

Virginia Career Works has a Workforce Connection webpage for anyone seeking employment in Virginia.