This week's council leader's diary comes from Kaytlan, who has been on work experience at Stroud District Council.

Hi, I’m Kaytlan Coates, I’m 15 and am participating in a second voluntary week of work experience at Stroud District Council after completing a week there previously in the press office.

I have been given an insight into communications and media which I am passionate about pursuing.

Through completing various tasks such as taking photographs, composing social media posts and participating in staff meetings I have gained understanding of the different elements of the career path and have been able to see the importance of work experience.

This has also inspired me to create my own blog.

 Having the opportunity to get involved in a work environment and experience something young people are often told they are working towards but don’t always get to practice has given me a brilliant  view of what I may want to do in the future and what options are actually available to me after school and exams. whether it be further education, an apprenticeship or another avenue.

For example, during my time here I interviewed and wrote a press release on a council apprentice Emily Robbins who had recently made the final of a local apprenticeship awards as a nominee for Apprentice of the Year.

Learning about her journey as an apprentice has offered me inspiration into my own possible path and has allowed me to see how many opportunities are available to young people in the area.

To conclude, work experience has been an enjoyable and informative opportunity for me and has given me an experience to help guide me in my future. I would encourage others to utilise work experience opportunities as they can  provide a valuable sense of what is available to young people and how they can achieve their aspirations.