Placement Review at Maria Lau

The Role

Role Description

My main tasks were to make and design non traditional jewellery using a variety of unusual materials. I was tough new skills and techniques that have become very valuable. I also learnt about business e.g suppliers, stock, management and marketing.

1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Everything I have learnt has been valuable and enjoyable. The work environment is happy and welcoming.

2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Some of the orders can not be fulfilled with out me as I am the only one who has been trained to make certain items. This has made me feel responsible and valued.

3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

At first I was the only placement student so I was given more time to learn and perfect things. As the business has grown and more inexperienced students have been taken on it has become less necessary to be given guidance but appraisals have helped me to understand and maintain my performance.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

There is always something to do and usually deadlines to work towards but there is not too much pressure as in this type of work it is better to take your time and make it perfect rather than rush things.

5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Along side my placement I took a part time business course where I was expected to set up my own business. I would not have been as successful if I had not have already had experience in working for a small independent business. I worked with all kinds of materials and used a vast amount of techniques which are ideal skills and inspiration to my Degree in Textile Crafts. I feel ready and confident to begin my final year after taking a year out to learn new skills and experience different working environments.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Welcoming and enjoyable. It was lovely to work and chat and share ideas. It was a very creative place with lots of enthusiasm.

8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

There is a place for everything and you are in charge of your own area you have been working in.

9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I have learnt so much over the past 2 or more years but I have also seen students on shorter placements pick up techniques and get involved straight away. After being trained in one area you are left to be independent, unless you have any problems, till the next new task or technique which is a good way to work I think.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

• There were no perks with this placement

11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

It all depends if the business continues to grow. As it is a small independent business it is hard to say but if it does continue to be successful then Im sure I would be invited back to work.

Other Information

12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Everyone seems to really enjoy it and get along. We all have lunch together and talk through the day.

13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I was living with my parents, had a part time job and got a part of my usual student loan so it was fine for me.

14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

I have lived in Huddersfield for years so its just were I have grown up.

15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Yes, I have taken part in workshops and others have taken part in trade shows and photo shoots. There are also opportunities to work on window displays, event and stalls.

In addition to these questions, is there any extra information you would like to leave about your experiences on your work placement that other students may be interested in?

As this was a small independent jewellery business I think it would be very different from larger companies work. It is a very relaxed and creative environment with lots to learn.