COLLEGE FORGES LINKS WITH KENT RETAILER

A Kent college has joined forces with a Canterbury retailer to give students an insight into a real life work environment.

Thanet College’s motor vehicle students will now have regular visits to Volkswagen retailer EuroCanterbury, allowing them direct contact with industry professionals.

The first wave of students recently visited EuroCanterbury’s Broad Oak Lane premises, with all claiming huge benefits from the day.

Andy Jeffrey, Thanet College’s motor vehicle lecturer, said: “This link with EuroCanterbury is a massive boost for the students, giving them the chance to experience the environment they intend to work in.

“The main emphasis was to find out what happens at all levels in a major vehicle workshop, but it was important the learners visited all parts of the business to know how everyone works together.”

During the day visit, students were greeted by EuroCanterbury’s managing director, John Bailey, before the management team took the group around the various departments at the retailer.

Andy added: “Everyone at EuroCanterbury are clearly enthusiastic about their work and took the time to explain each area and show the learners around.

“The group returned with increased aspirations for gaining employment in the industry and the importance of high quality control and interaction between departments.”

EuroCanterbury’s John Bailey said: “Looking to the future is vital for any industry or business and we hope students at Thanet College will benefit from this new link.

“As a local business it’s important we help young people across the region achieve their career ambitions. We look forward to welcoming more students in the near future.”

The next visit of Thanet College students to EuroCanterbury Volkswagen is planned for this autumn.

KENT CHILDREN TAKE PRIDE IN CAREERS

A school visit from a local business manager has inspired children to choose their careers early.

St James the Great Primary School in East Malling has been teaching Year six children about their aspirations and ambitions for their future professions

The talk by Beadles Volkswagen’s service manager, Steve McGannon, from inspired many of the children to consider a future in the automotive industry.

Due to the popularity of Steve’s visit, Beadles Volkswagen invited Jack Cadwallader, Matthew Abrey, Alix Lucas and Shannon Calverley to the retailer for a tour of the workshop and showroom.


Clare Mason, senior leader of learning at the school, said: “We were delighted to receive the invitation from Beadles Volkswagen for the children have a guided tour and talk with staff.

“They had an incredible afternoon and returned to school with knowledge, enthusiasm and desire for a career in the car industry.

“We continually look at ways of developing children’s interests in their future working life and can’t thank Steve and Beadles enough for their support.”

Steve said: “Children are the future workforce for many local businesses and it’s important we help them make the right choice in careers.

“By talking to them in school and allowing visits, children can sample life at a car retailer early, before deciding if it’s the right career for them.

“Judging by the enthusiasm of the children, I’m sure a few of them will be back in the coming years.”