YEAR 10 students from all over the Southern Downs are enjoying their taste of life in the real world this week with work experience commencing.

The students who participate in work experience are given the opportunity to decide their dream career and are provided with the prospect to have first-hand involvement.

Businesses from all over Warwick, Killarney, Allora and Stanthorpe have agreed to accept work experience students for the week and guide them through the roles and responsibilities of their particular job.

Work experience is designed to provide students with the chance to gain practical experience develop workplace skills and gain confidence in their chosen field of work.

Jess Henry, Jacinta Hawks, Larissa Millard, Zara Hilton and Vanessa Bryson from Assumption College chose teaching for their placement and could be seen helping out at St Mary's sports carnival yesterday.

Larissa Millard, a past St Mary's student who helped out with the high jump at the carnival said that she was enjoying the opportunity.

"It's lots of fun being able to help the kids," she said.

Larissa also said that she was finding the people involved with the job to be very friendly and welcoming as many are her friends and family members.

Jess Henry and Jacinta Hawks who were avid long jump assistants said they were having a great time seeing the St Mary's kids participate in their sports carnival.

Jess' mother Regina said it was good to see the kids enjoying the practical side of the workforce.

"It's good they get real experience," she said.

Are you a student at work experience this week and want to share what you're doing with Daily News readers? Call Leah on 4660 1364.