At Essential Site Skills (ESS), we recently had the pleasure of hosting George for a week-long work experience placement. This experience was invaluable not only for George but also for our team, as it underscored the importance of nurturing young talent and preparing the next generation for the workforce. One of the highlights of George's week was spending a day with our good friends over at Impelling, where he delved into the world of IT, including AI and coding, and produced a website showcasing his time at both ESS and Impelling. Here's a detailed account of George's time with us, highlighting the significance of work experience and why employers should actively participate in such initiatives.

Day 1 and 2: Operations Team Immersion

George's journey began with our operations team, where he dived into the intricate workings of the NVQ department. Under Amanda and Kayley's guidance, he helped update our internal systems with information about current approval statuses and our cloud-based e-portfolio. This hands-on experience gave George a glimpse into the meticulous nature of operations and data management.

Kayley also introduced George to the process of handling customer feedback forms, emphasising the critical role customer satisfaction plays at ESS. Together, they reviewed a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure it was fit for purpose. George even got a taste of client communication, assisting Kayley with emails. His ability to adapt and contribute effectively impressed Kayley, showcasing his potential in a professional setting.

Day 3: Marketing Magic

On the third day, George switched gears to spend time with Louise in our Marketing Department. He tackled a comprehensive brief that challenged his research and creative skills, writing a blog post titled "The Upcoming UK Elections: What They Mean for the Construction Sector." George analysed potential changes in infrastructure spending, housing policies, and environmental regulations due to the elections.

In addition to the blog, George created a LinkedIn post draft to promote it, learning to craft engaging teasers and use relevant hashtags for increased visibility. Louise also guided him in designing a visually appealing digital graphic aligned with our branding, integrating themes of construction and UK governance. George's graphic was of such high quality that we are considering using it across our organisation’s social media channels.

Day 4: IT Insights with Impelling

The fourth day brought an exciting change as our friends from Impelling visited to give George some insight into the workings of an IT company. The day involved a wide range of IT tasks, including a look at Impelling's service management software and how generative AI is used across the business.

George's favourite task, however, was his coding exercise, which saw him assemble and learn how to host a basic website. He updated this website with several blogs about his work experience week.

Day 5: Online Health and Safety Awareness Course

George's final day at ESS was dedicated to understanding construction health and safety. He attended our Health and Safety Awareness course, gaining crucial knowledge about maintaining safety in high-risk environments. This experience highlighted the importance of safety protocols and their implementation in the construction industry.

The Value of Work Experience

George's week with us was a testament to the profound benefits of work experience for young individuals. It provides them with a realistic view of the working world, helps them develop crucial skills, and boosts their confidence. Employers, on the other hand, benefit by nurturing potential future employees and gaining fresh perspectives.

Addressing the Skills Shortage

The UK is currently facing a significant skills shortage across various sectors. By offering work experience opportunities, employers can play a pivotal role in bridging this gap. Engaging young people early on helps ignite their interest in these fields and equips them with the skills needed to succeed.

Supporting the Future Workforce

Employers have a responsibility to support the future workforce. Providing work experience opportunities like the one George had at ESS is an investment in the future. It not only helps young people make informed career choices but also ensures a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Professional and Caring Support from Highfields School

We would also like to extend our gratitude to Highfields School for their exemplary professionalism and care in arranging George's placement. Their thoughtful approach ensured that George was well-prepared and fully supported throughout his time with us. Highfields School’s commitment to their students' development is truly commendable.

Conclusion

George's week at Essential Site Skills was more than just a learning experience; it was a stepping stone towards a promising future. His willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute made a significant impact on our team. We are proud to have been a part of his journey and encourage other employers to offer similar opportunities. Together, we can address the skills shortage and build a brighter future for the next generation.

By nurturing young talent and providing them with real-world experience, we not only empower individuals like George but also strengthen our industries and communities. Let's commit to supporting work experience programs and shaping a skilled and resilient workforce for the future.

George also brought in some delicious biscuits for the team, adding a thoughtful touch to the week. Thank you for the biccies, George – we all love a good biscuit!