Prao, practical work-life orientation, gives secondary school students a first glimpse of working life. And for many, it is the memory of prao that determines what they want to do after upper secondary school.
What is prao?#
Prao has been mandatory for all students in years 8 or 9 of compulsory school since 2018. Over a minimum of ten days you get to try out an occupation by shadowing and participating in the work at a workplace.
Unlike upper secondary APL or YH-based LIA, prao is not graded. The purpose is to give you a picture of working life and help you make wiser choices ahead of upper secondary school.
Who is responsible for prao?#
The school is obliged to arrange a prao placement for every student. In practice it varies, some municipalities have digital placement databases where students apply themselves, while others assign placements.
You as a student can often influence the outcome by suggesting a workplace. Talk to your mentor or careers advisor early on.
You as a parent can help by suggesting workplaces in your network. Many prao placements are arranged through personal contacts.
How to find a good prao placement#
Start from your interests#
Think about what you actually enjoy, not just which jobs sound cool. Do you like animals? Try a veterinary clinic. Do you like building things? Check with a carpenter or a construction company.
Ask around#
Many of the best prao placements are found through:
- Parents' and relatives' workplaces
- Neighbours and family friends
- The municipality's prao portal (if your municipality has one)
- The school: your careers advisor often has suggestions
Contact the workplace#
Call or email. Keep it short and polite:
Hi! My name is [name] and I am in year 8 at [school]. I would love to do my prao placement with you during week [number]. Would that be possible?
Most workplaces say yes, it is a short period and requires little from them.
What do you do during prao?#
It varies depending on the workplace, but common activities include:
- Shadowing and observing how the work is done
- Helping out with simple tasks
- Asking questions to employees about their professions
- Trying equipment or tools under supervision
You are not expected to know anything specific. The point is to see, experience, and reflect.
Tips for a successful prao#
Be yourself, but professional. You are a guest at a workplace. Greet everyone, be polite, and listen.
Put your phone away. Your mission is to take in impressions. Save social media for breaks.
Write your prao report as you go. Most schools require a report afterwards. Jot down a few notes each day so you don't have to stress on the last evening.
Don't be afraid to ask. There are no stupid questions. Workplaces that host prao students expect curiosity.
Say thank you afterwards. A quick thank you, in person or via a message, is always appreciated.
Common prao placements#
| Industry | Examples |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Health centre, dentist, pharmacy |
| School/preschool | Teacher, after-school educator |
| Retail | Grocery store, clothing shop |
| Office | Municipal office, insurance company, IT firm |
| Trades | Car workshop, hairdresser, carpenter |
| Justice system | District court, police (subject to availability) |
| Media/culture | Newspaper editorial, library, museum |
| Animals | Veterinarian, kennel, riding school |
Information for parents#
What is expected of me?#
You do not need to arrange the prao placement, that is the school's responsibility. But you can:
- Help your child brainstorm workplaces
- Offer contacts in your network
- Talk through expectations and nerves at home
- Make sure your child has appropriate clothing
Is my child insured?#
Yes. Students on prao are covered by the municipality's accident insurance. Check with the school if you want more details.
What happens if my child doesn't enjoy it?#
Talk to the school. A bad day is completely normal. If there is a serious problem, the school can help arrange a different placement.
Can you choose the placement?#
In most municipalities students can express a preference, but there is no guarantee. Some municipalities assign placements based on availability.
Prao as a compass#
Prao lasts only one or two weeks, but the impressions can stay for a long time. Many adults can still talk about their prao, what they discovered, what they ruled out, and sometimes the seed that eventually led to their career choice.
Make the most of those days. Be curious, ask questions, and let yourself be surprised. There is no right or wrong outcome, only experience.
