Management Industrial Placement Review

I really enjoyed my placement year given the experience and exposure I received. Whilst it was hard work I would recommend it to anyone that's committed and keen to develop in a professional environment. I enjoyed the responsibility I received and the different parts to the placement that give you a well rounded view of the company and operations.

I felt I was carrying out an important role at all times in the placement and therefore quite valued. The colleagues I worked with differed through the different phases of my project however on a general basis I did feel valued and respected at most times during the placement year.

The support and guidance I received was not as much as I'd have expected, towards the beginning of my placement I'd have appreciated more support. However I understand a large bulk of the challenge is getting on with things alone and independent learning, so I was able to prove myself in this sense.

The placement I have completed requires someone that is not afraid to be constantly busy and have a lot on their plate. I was constantly on my feet, acting under pressure, making decisions and operating in a fast paced environment. I often worked over time due to the work load and expectations.

Responsibility was a huge part of the placement I completed. I was in charge of people, the store, and national project work. Responsibility allows you to mould the experience and develop independently, which I think is great.This opportunity was huge and something I would not expect on other placement years.

The training and exposure I received in a fast paced and constantly changing environment was brilliant. I have developed skills that will aid me in any job role and in general life. I think time management and efficiency in work will help me with my degree work looking forward into next year.

The atmosphere in the work environments I was in were very different. Initially Stores was quite fun and positive however the dynamic is difficult when acting as a manager in these situations. The office atmosphere is quite professional and quiet. This is not necessarily a bad thing, it is just the way it is.

The placement had a solid structure that was mainly stuck to at all times. The training plan meant you knew what was ahead of you at all times and could plan ahead in terms of training and general life. It was organised well and we were able to give feedback on this in a recent meeting.

The training was in depth and whilst fast paced I learnt a lot in a short period of time. The investment into personal development comes from the responsibility and opportunities to act in certain situations, so I think it is huge. It also requires a huge personal investment from the placement student to want to succeed.

Future employment with the company is very appealing to me, I feel very invested in the company and have learnt a lot about its culture and way of operating. The placement year is a good stepping stone towards the graduate scheme and the opportunity to move forward to this really appeals to me.

No. As a manager I was unable to mix socially with any of the staff, meaning the social scene was non existent. I was located in a different area to the other industrial placement student so unable to live with/work with/socialise with her, this was unfortunate in my opinion and could be improved.

It was a very lonely experience with slim opportunities to socialise or see people outside of work. The hours (quantity and timings) did not really allow for a social life. The end section of the placement allowed for more of a social life with having weekends off. The cost of living in both areas I worked in was relatively expensive.

Could not comment due to lack of opportunity to go out in the first section of my placement. The second section of my placement was in a different location and here I did not work weekends so was able to experience the night life - it is quite good, and London is close by.

No. There were very few opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work due to the changing shift patterns and irregular working hours. Sports clubs etc. were not really an option caused by an inability to commit to a time/day each week. No activities outside of work were organised through the placement or with colleagues.