A partnership between Newbury College and Educafe is helping young people gain valuable workplace experience while supporting the local community.
The collaboration has created structured placements where students can build confidence, develop practical skills and learn how a community organisation operates which was featured by Educafe in their article Strengthening Youth Opportunities through Our Collaboration with Newbury College | Educafe.
Harrison Raithby joined Educafe to complete his Media Broadcast & Production T Level Industry Placement. He initially supported social media campaigns, website blogs and marketing activity.
As his placement developed, Harrison became involved in other areas of the organisation. He worked alongside staff and volunteers, supported the weekly community café and engaged with visitors from a range of backgrounds.
During the final months of his placement, Harrison took on a more community-facing role. He welcomed visitors, offered conversation and companionship, and helped create an inclusive atmosphere.
He also supported visitors with digital skills and language activities. This helped him strengthen his communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Harrison took part in volunteer safeguarding training and attended volunteer appreciation events. He also received podcast development training, which expanded his creative and technical knowledge.
Subia Azmat from Educafe said: “I am incredibly proud of the progress he has made, both personally and professionally. I wish him the very best for his future.”
Educafe reported that Harrison had grown in confidence, initiative and independence throughout the placement. His willingness to learn allowed him to move from a mainly media-based role into the organisation’s busy operations team.
The partnership supports Newbury College’s ‘Careers, not courses’ approach by giving students practical experience in the workplace. Industry placements also benefit employers by bringing fresh ideas into their organisation, helping to develop future talent and giving them the chance to shape the skills needed in their sector.
Newbury College and Educafe hope to continue developing the partnership so that more young people can access meaningful work experience and contribute to their community.
Employers interested in offering work experience opportunities to Newbury College students can visit newbury-college.ac.uk/employers to find out more.