Work experience is a great way to be able to build you skills, experience and especially you’re C.V. It improves your chances of being able to get a job you would like after graduation. And more the experience the better it will look to your employer.
Now the difference between work and work experience is: Work means moaning about the boss, drinking cheap coffee and helping you to the “free” stationery room- all the while getting paid. Work experience means being enthusiastic, diligent and full of ideas, while not receiving a bloody penny.
There are many ways of being able to get work experience, maybe through family and friends, or sending letters and C.V. to possible organisations, or even go to your university careers advisor see if they can help. Or even look TheStudentJob.com, even if it may not lead to your specific area, it may give you the skills you can gain.
When you eventually do get a week or two work experiences learn everything you can about the company, think of why you would want to work for the organisation and think about questions you may be asked.
Find out in advance before going to your work experience as to what the dress code would be, if there is a uniform, if you have to be formal, etc.
Never be afraid to ask questions while you are there, take notes, absorb as much as you can about the job, the experience, the organisation. Learn from your mistakes as well, and accept them.
At the end of the experience ask for feedback for future experiences and ask for a reference as well.
Depending on the type of job you are applying for, a thorough criminal record check may be necessary. This is done in the form of a CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) check. The CRB is an agency under the Home Office. The Bureau enables organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially that involve children or vulnerable adults. 
