An Inspiring Week of Work Experience

October half-term proved to be a transformative experience for many of our students, showcasing their resilience, growth, and determination while performing at the work placements arranged by our Work Placement Team and Sparks Charity.

Our students have gained valuable skills and experiences through their work placements, leading to some truly inspiring successes. Here’s a glimpse into the remarkable journeys they have taken, highlighting their achievements and the positive impact these opportunities have had on their development.

Mary-Anne’s confidence blossoms (NHS Placement)

One of the most heart warming transformations came from Mary-Anne, who initially struggled with shyness and confidence. During her NHS placement at Central Middlesex, Mary-Anne was tasked with delivering a 3-5 minute presentation about her week, alongside 35 other students from different schools and colleges. Despite her initial apprehensions, Mary-Anne stood confidently at the front of a large auditorium, presenting, without notes, and even handling questions from her peers with ease! Her growth was evident to everyone present, including her Work placement coordinator, who supported her throughout. The department she worked with gave glowing feedback, praising her engagement and enthusiasm. Mary-Anne’s story is a testament to the profound personal growth work experience can inspire.

Kayleigh’s unwavering dedication (NHS Placement)

Kayleigh faced her own set of challenges and was quite nervous for her placement, but she did not let this hold her back! Her efforts during her NHS placement earned her high praise from her supervisor, who described her as polite, well-mannered, and incredibly hardworking. One standout task was her reorganisation of the stationery cupboard, which had been in a state of disarray. Kayleigh’s ability to work independently and take the initiative impressed her entire team, earning her admiration and respect.

Indianna’s drive to excel (NHS Placement)

Placed in a non-clinical administrative role, Indianna, a T Level Health & Social Care student, displayed determination and positive attitude. She impressed her supervisor so much that they took the extra step of advocating for her to gain clinical experience. This proactive gesture speaks volumes about Indianna’s potential and the relationships she built during her placement.

Joyston’s accomplishments at WATES

Joyston, a T Level Engineering student, had a rewarding week at WATES, gaining hands-on experience and even earning an accredited certificate. The experience inspired him to write a blog of his own to capture his reflections, deepening his understanding of the professional world.

Key Takeaways

Despite the challenges that come up, the overwhelmingly positive feedback from students and employers underscores the immense value of these placements. Students like Mary-Anne, Kayleigh, Indianna, and Joyston demonstrated the power of resilience, hard work, and adaptability. These experiences not only equip students with practical skills but also help them build confidence, foster independence, and connect to their potential. These placements are particularly important for young people, offering them a platform to shine.

Through stories like these, we are reminded of the transformative power of opportunities and the incredible potential of our students. Let’s continue to support and celebrate their journeys.