Heartbeat: Learning works team creating opportunities for young students

September 3, 2018

Delighted, Work Experience Navigator, Rob Dolan collected the ‘Employer of the Year’ gong awarded by a West Bromwich school – which recognised the way our organisation has inspired students.

Rob, working alongside his colleagues within the learning works team, has collaborated with more than 70 schools and colleges to help around 300 students to secure work experience within our organisation.

His dedication and commitment in helping youngsters has been widely recognised during his 15 year career with our organisation.

Now Sandwell Academy has awarded Rob and the learning works team, the title ‘Employer of the Year’.

Speaking about this achievement, Rob said: “I feel very privileged to collect this award on behalf of our team.

“We are the only NHS organisation in the West Midlands that offers work experience to students from the age of 14. In this year alone, we have received nearly 1,000 applications and it’s great to see the Trust’s growing reputation among schools and colleges.”

Rob and the team have been working tirelessly with many departments across our organisation to set up work experience for students. He added: “Colleagues are becoming more welcoming to students who are coming to us to carry out work experience.

“A number of consultants have told me that students reminded them of themselves when they first started working in the NHS. So, they felt they needed to give something back by helping those students to realise their dreams and passion.”

Lawrence Kelly, Learning Works Centre Co-ordinator, added that work experience was essential in the development of younger students. He explained: “They (the students) will experience the world of work in a unique, professional environment.

“Our organisation plays a vital role in helping individuals reach their objectives, which will ultimately prepare them for the journey in becoming a future apprentice or employee with us.”

If you would like to welcome work experience students to your department, please contact the Learning Works Centre 0121 507 5886.