Work experience opens doors to dream job for DCG student

A student on a Fitness Instructor programme at the Broomfield Hall college site has secured a part time job in a fitness centre after impressing managers during his work experience placement.

17-year old Ben Cudworth is now working on a part-time basis at Ripley Leisure Centre whilst also attending the Morley campus of Derby College where there is a strong focus on work experience as part of studies.

He secured a 14-week placement through the College’s employer academy programme with the contractor running the leisure centre of behalf of the local authority.

His skills and positive attitude have now led to him being offered casual paid hours whilst he completes his study programme and he is hoping to gain a permanent position when he leaves College this summer.

Senior Fitness Instructor Oliver Simpson said: “Placement students work alongside our fitness team to gain the skills, knowledge and experience needed to work in the fitness industry. This include shadowing our Gym Instructors and Personal Trainers whilst they deliver appointments and completing tasks such as the cleaning and maintenance of the equipment.

“We could see from the offset just how enthusiastic Ben was, his willingness to do all different aspects of the job and how well he interacted with the members. Therefore, when some casual hours became available, we immediately thought of offering them to him.

“Although we offer a lot of work experience placements, we have never had anyone who has then been offered casual hours whilst still at college which just shows Ben’s calibre.”

Ben continued: “The College put me in touch with Places for People and I started my 14-week placement last November working every Wednesday. I love being in the gym environment and all the staff have been great showing me the ropes.

“Doing the College course has opened the door to getting my dream job and I hope it will lead to a permanent position when I finish College this summer so that I can work here and gain further qualifications.”

For more information about the study programmes available at Derby College Group (DCG) and the work experience opportunities, please visit www.derby-college.ac.uk or call 0800 028 0289