Beyond the Stereotypes: What We Learned from Our Gen Z Work Experience Week

The headlines are everywhere: “Generation Z is reshaping the workplace.” “Young workers demand different values.” “How can employers engage with Gen Z?” But rather than speculate from the sidelines, we decided to dive in headfirst and learn directly from these young voices.

Beginning 9 June 2025, Cherwell Collective welcomed eight work experience students for a week that challenged assumptions, built real skills, and reminded us why fresh perspectives are invaluable. Here’s what happened when we moved beyond the generational stereotypes and got to work.

Starting with Purpose

Our week began with a simple recognition: 61% of young UK workers prioritize their employers’ values, particularly around social responsibility. With our strong mission centered on community wellbeing and climate resilience, we felt uniquely positioned to offer meaningful work experiences that align with what this generation truly cares about.

Rather than relegating students to coffee runs and filing duties, we designed a week that would give each participant hands-on experience across every department while developing genuinely transferable skills for their future careers.

Monday: Foundations and Fashion

The students hit the ground running on Monday with an introduction to Xero financial software, learning the basics of invoicing, crediting, and recording bank transactions. But we weren’t about to keep them chained to spreadsheets all day.

They also delved into the creative side of our work, helping to assemble craft items for our upcoming Fashion Show on 1 October at Blenheim Palace, and conducting research into local sustainable shops – laying the groundwork for outreach work that would follow later in the week.

Touch Grass and Talk to People

Two of our favorite initiatives were quite literal: getting the students to “touch grass” and talk to people. This wasn’t just a cheeky response to digital native stereotypes – it was about building confidence in real-world interactions.

A phone skills session had students calling sustainable shops in pairs to ask if they’d display posters for our fashion show. For many, making cold calls was initially daunting, but by the end of the session, they were confidently representing our organization and building genuine connections with local businesses.

The “touch grass” component came alive during our Harvest @ Home session under the guidance of our Kidlington coordinator, Matthew. After introductions (complete with star sign sharing – because why not?), the group headed to our community gardens.

Initially, some students expressed concern about “potential critters lurking in the undergrowth,” but they bravely donned their gloves and got to work. Their teamwork was remarkable as they removed old weed membranes and tackled persistent dock and bindweed, effectively clearing an overgrown area for future vegetable growth.

As the day progressed, something beautiful happened. The students became more comfortable with each other and their surroundings, sharing personal experiences related to nature and gardening, discussing their aspirations, and opening up about challenges they might face. 

Building Both Self-Sufficiency and Teamwork

Part of our mission involves helping communities develop skills that promote self-sufficiency and reduce waste. For our work experience students, this philosophy came to life through a delightful basket-weaving session led by one of our volunteers. Using yarn and traditional techniques, the students created functional items while learning a skill that connects them to sustainable living practices.

The hands-on learning continued as students helped organize the Oxford Party Library, gaining insight into community resource sharing and event management.

Meanwhile, instead of lecturing about teamwork and communication, we created an activity where students had to explain tasks to their peers, ensuring one group could smoothly take over work started by another. This exercise highlighted the importance of clear communication and collaborative handoffs – skills that will serve them well in any future workplace.

Friday: Full Circle

Our final day brought everything together beautifully. Students assisted our marketing team with research for the Sustainable Fashion Show, identifying target audiences and optimal advertising channels. The energy then shifted into full creative flow as they hand-painted beautiful invitation cards for the show.

To end the day, some work students chose to continue with basket weaving, a skill they’d discovered earlier in the week, while others learned hospitality management essentials in our Climatarian Kitchen. By Friday afternoon, these weren’t the same uncertain students who had walked through our doors on Monday morning.

What We Learned

This generation isn’t asking for participation trophies or constant praise. They’re seeking purpose, authenticity, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. They want to understand how their work connects to larger goals and values.

They’re also remarkably adaptable. Whether learning financial software, making cold calls, or digging up weeds, our students approached each challenge with curiosity and determination. Yes, they needed guidance, as any new workers do, but they also brought fresh perspectives and genuine enthusiasm to every task.

Most importantly, they reminded us that the best way to understand any generation is not through headlines or surveys, but through real collaboration and shared purpose.

Looking Forward

As we prepare for our Sustainable Fashion Show on October 1st – featuring posters placed by our students, invitations painted by their hands, and promoted through their research – we’re reminded that the future of work isn’t about managing generational differences. It’s about creating environments where everyone can contribute their unique strengths toward shared goals.

Our Gen Z work experience students didn’t just learn from us – they taught us that when you provide meaningful opportunities and genuine respect, young people will rise to meet any challenge. And they might just change your organization for the better in the process.

Want to learn more about our work or get involved with future programs? Visit our volunteer page.