Work experience in the Supplier and Merchanting Sector for the Maddie Rose Campaign!

As part of the Maddie Rose Campaign, one of our Southwark students had a wonderful time on their work experience placement with Travis Perkins, learning all about the supplier and merchant sector.

Throughout the week the young person was immersed in a diverse range of real-life tasks, equipping them with exciting new skills and ensuring they felt like a real member of the team. From operations management on the shop floor to exploring the builder’s yard, the young person was able to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the branch works together.

“The Travis Perkins Group operates within the Building Supply Industry which is a hidden part of the wider Construction Sector. As an industry, we need to focus on inspiring the next generation and building skills for the future which is why partnerships, like the one we have with the Construction Youth Trust, are so important. School engagement activity, and offering work experience within our business, allows us to showcase the great careers that are possible within our sector as well as the industry leading training we offer our colleagues to help them grow.” – Verity Williams, Early Careers Manager.

Shadowing was another important element of the placement, where the student was able to shadow a number of Travis Perkins employees. This offered a fantastic insight into the roles and responsibilities of these employees, their teams and departments.

“When I came to Travis Perkins, all the staff were nice and helpful. The member of staff I was working with showed and explained different equipment, helping me understand what different objects did and what they were used for.”- Student.

By the end of the week, the Travis Perkins’ team had noticed the young person’s interest in the sector and their self-confidence grow, with the young person even serving customers behind the trade counter! Work experience isn’t only about providing an insight into the working world, it’s also an opportunity for a young person to realise their very own potential. The Travis Perkins team were impressed with the student’s professional demeanor and excellent communication skills. A massive thank you to Chris and the team at the Peckham Travis Perkins branch for such an inspiring placement!