After completing a six-week work placement towards the end of their studies, four Bury College Engineering students have been taken on permanently at local manufacturing firm PPS Commercials.

Marek Pravda, Marcus Hutchings, Connor Keenan and Sam Warburton impressed straight away during their placement and are now preparing for full-time employment.

Connor, formerly of The Derby High School, was highlighted as one of the students that really developed during his placement. He said: “My work placement at PPS has been amazing; they have taught me some amazing new skills and I’m looking forward to what comes next now.”

Marek also enjoyed his placement and is now looking forward to the future. The former Unsworth Academy pupil said: “I had a great experience learning some new skills such as welding and vehicle body building.”

Nigel Shields, Employer Engagement and Skills Team Manager, added: “The relationship we have built with PPS Commercials continues to develop so it was fantastic when a group of students went on placement there. The news that four of them are being kept on as full-time employees is not only a great advert for the benefits of getting a work placement whilst studying, but the College as a whole.”

Emma Sidebottom, Head of HR at PPS Commercials, said: “I have really enjoyed having this group of students for their work experience placement. They all have a great work ethic and have come on leaps and bounds during their time with us. We are delighted that they have taken up the opportunity to stay on as full-time employees of PPS Commercials, and we look forward to seeing how their careers develop.”

Work placements offer young people the chance to develop their confidence and communication skills and help inform their future career choices. As a professional business, there are many benefits to supporting a young person in the workplace. For more information, please contact the team on 0161 280 8430 or email placements@burycollege.ac.uk

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