Work placement pays off for students

Local employers consistently support students with enhancing their employability and technical skills in the workplace, which aids their career decisions. Learners are supported and mentored in the workplace to meet their placement objectives and are provided with feedback on their performance.

Before the half-term break representatives from a range of employers – including Innovation Nottinghamshire, NHS, Thoresby Hall Hotel and Spa, Go Active Falconry, and Complexions Salon – came together at the college’s Derby Road campus to receive certificates in recognition of the vital role they play, which ensures students can take their learning out of the classroom or workshop and into the world of work.

Students were congratulated by employers for their valuable contribution while on placement and received certificates and a career toolkit.

Employability and progression manager Maxine Buttery said: “The event was a wonderful opportunity to say thank you. Thank you to our great network of employers for their enthusiasm and flexibility to support the college with such a variety of industry opportunities for students. Thank you to the students themselves for stepping out of their comfort zone and conducting themselves with such professionalism and enthusiasm as they encounter new experiences in the workplace, leading to amazing outcomes such as employment and apprenticeships.

“It’s essential our young people have the chance to become better equipped for the world of work by developing their employability skills – and this can only be achieved with the involvement of our business networks and, of course, the dedication of the work placement team.

“As T Levels come on-board, students on full-time courses will be required to spend more than 45 days in the working environment to pass their course. Therefore, these partnerships with the local community, and bringing business and education together, will be even more critical.”

Nick Mellors, the founder of Innovation Nottinghamshire, said: “More recently I’ve been working with graphic design students who have created logos for my company and another company. They also developed a graphic to explain to me about careers, which I now use in my presentations to businesses. Performing arts and media students are also creating videos to explain more about 5G.

“The quality of work we’ve had from the students is as good as if we’d gone to a professional graphic designer. They’re able to build up their portfolios to show to employers. They’ve dealt with real pressures and real deadlines very professionally. I love working with them and I hope they’ve enjoyed their experiences so far.”