Work and Industry Placements are invaluable in supporting employers to access a motivated and engaged talent pool.
The landmark reforms issued in the ‘Skills for Jobs’ White Paper challenges the illusion that a degree is the only route to a successful career and instead supercharges further and technical education, realigning the whole system around the needs of employers so people are trained for existing and future skills gaps.
Kirklees College works with hundreds of employers across all sectors to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for employers to futureproof their workforce.
We spoke to some of our employers to discuss the benefits of work placements.
Work placements offer access to a wide range of talent and potential future apprentices who can be equipped with the necessary skillset from the outset.
David Brook, Operations Manager at Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing, said:
“We have used the learning to develop our apprenticeship offer and a supportive culture in our organisation. I would encourage any employer to support industry placements as you may find some real talent.”
Offering placements provides opportunities for existing staff to supervise and mentor a young person longer term which can increase their skillset and motivation.
Agnieszka Taparek, Salon Owner of La Visage, commented:
“I always learn something new from a student on placement, they often remind you of skills you may have forgotten or show you something completely new.”
Work placements also offer the opportunity to increase and diversify the workforce.Students can offer fresh ideas and help with the company workload.
Doug Farlie, Managing Director of Trafficlear Ltd, said:
“Students are really helping with our overall workload. They are completing tasks and contributing to the growth of the business.”
For more information about work placements, please contact Alex Chappell, Employer Engagement Officer on 07866794733 or achappell@kirkleescollege.ac.uk.