The idea was to create a work experience programme (as opposed to a placement) that offered students a good insight to different business functions by completing a short period of work experience in a total of 3 different teams and business areas. This was supplemented with some cohort activities to help students develop key skills that are essential for business and gaining employment. Sessions included; Digital Technology in the workplace, Leadership Training, Presentation Skills, Communicating with Confidence, Employability Skills, Interview and Application Coaching and Mock Interview Training.

A total of 6 students were offered a 45 day placement and we provided them with exposure to different business functions; Capability, Recruitment, Comms and Engagement, Practice Support, HR and Finance. During their placement, the students were placed in pairs and each group spent around 3 weeks working within a team before rotating to another team. They were all given 3 mini projects to complete. One project for each team rotation. The projects included elements of research, engagement, analysis, delivery and report writing. All students were assigned a line manager and a mentor to help them develop their skills and support them in their roles.

All students were given the opportunity to present an overview of their projects along with feedback and recommendations to senior colleagues. It was wonderful to see their hard work pay off as their feedback, research and recommendations directly contributed to the success of some of our wider programmes of work.