Placement overview
Name: Jed
Vocational area: Construction
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Lebrija, Spain
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“The programme stands out clearly on my CV. I was able to appreciate how different aspects of plumbing are prioritised in different countries due to climate and building styles. In Spain you have to plan for the heat whilst in the UK you plan for the colder weather.”
The motivation
I applied for this opportunity because I felt that it would be an amazing experience to gain practical vocational knowledge whilst travelling with my friends.
The placement
I worked in a construction company where I was able to develop the technical skills I had learnt on my course. I was able to appreciate how different aspects of plumbing are prioritised in different countries due to climate and building styles. In Spain you have to plan for the heat whilst in the UK, you plan for the colder weather.
The location
I went out to eat every night with my friends and got my first tattoo! My trip to Cadiz was a real because I had never seen such an amazing sight.
My biggest learning experience was definitely brushing up on my ability to speak Spanish. I learnt it for GCSE but haven’t spoken any Spanish since, so I enjoyed being able to use my knowledge to impress my group. It also helped when we were sat on a bench in a plaza and we were approached by a group of friendly local people who came over to interact with us.
The impact
Working abroad taught me how to improvise and how to act professionally, especially whilst working for a manager who spoke little English. I was able to adapt successfully and complete my tasks.
The placement stands out clearly on my CV.
Now I’m going to finish my plumbing course and then hopefully my family and I will actually move out to Spain. I can continue my plumbing training there and possibly move onto something different like expanding skills in areas such as construction, gas or even solar panels.
Outcomes
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Improved language skills
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Exposure to cultural experience
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Confidence building
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Improved people skills
Collaboration and partnership is at the heart of what we do.
If you would like to find out more about the way we work, get in touch.
