College eager to build work-experience links with Stratford businesses

Stratford-upon-Avon College has launched a new partnership designed to open up maximum employment opportunities, as well as advice and guidance, to all its learners.

The College is now working in partnership with recruitment company Proactive Education to secure rewarding work-experience placements for all full-time students and collaborate with employers to source apprenticeship opportunities.  

Samantha Fitzgerald, Jane Trevellick and Nick Brosnan from Proactive Education are based in the College Job Pod three days a week. They run a drop-in service every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, offering skills and employment advice to all learners and sharing the vital work-readiness skills sought after by employers.

Samantha explained: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Stratford College. The team has over ten years experience in education and training delivery and we are currently in the process of recruiting companies in the Stratford area who are keen to offer placements.

"Our aim is to deliver work experience for every student; we act as a single point of contact, ensuring the whole process runs smoothly and the needs of both student and employer are met.”

Stevie Edmund-Jones, Head of Employer Engagement at the College, is excited at the prospect of working with Proactive Education.

“This innovative partnership will be of enormous help to our learners and local businesses alike," he said. "Both parties will benefit greatly from Proactive Education’s expertise in setting up suitable work experience and apprenticeship placements.

"Our learners will receive impartial employment advice and gain invaluable work-based training, whilst employers will be able to expand their workforce in a cost-efficient manner and ensure it is fully skilled.”

Samantha and Nick are also happy to welcome non-college students into the campus to provide employment advice to the general public.  So anyone considering a change in vocation, or who feels they would benefit from impartial guidance on career opportunities, are welcome to get in touch.

For more information, please visit www.stratford.ac.uk or call the College on 01789 266245.