Geoff Brookes says that work experience is “the most pointless part of the school year” (“Work experience: two words that don’t go together” March 19). I strongly disagree. Work experience can be very positive - but only if all parties co-operate. As the owner of a small hair and beauty salon, I’ve had a positive experience with Hereward College in Coventry. A member of staff came and had in-depth discussions with our salon manager to brief her and clarify how she and her staff could assist the college and the young people to achieve their objectives. He also discussed the various activities the young people could undertake or observe to give them awareness of the opportunities in the sector as well as what “a day in the life” of a hairdresser or beauty therapist involves.

Sunita Grigg, Creations Hair and Beauty Salon, Coventry.