Charlie leads the way with students thriving in Work Experience placements at Torridge District Council!

Work experience placements and supported internships are great ways to build skills and try out a job or career. Torridge District Council prides itself on providing an immersive, hands-on experience, with students gaining an insight into the day-to-day running of a local government authority.

Charlie Wright recently joined Torridge on a two-day a week supported internship from Petroc College. The one-year government-funded scheme aims to help students with additional needs transition from college into employment by giving them the skills and experience they need through learning in the workplace. Charlie is now a valued and productive member of the Council's Economic Development Team and is currently working on a significant project involving the Discover Bideford website.

Charlie Wright, Supported Internship Student, said:

"I am really enjoying working at Torridge as part of the Economic Development team. My title is Economic Development Support Officer. I'm working with a great team who have made me feel so welcome since joining in September. I have been working on the Discover Bideford website uploading new events that alert residents and visitors to what's going on in our area. I have also helped create new activities that are going to take place in the next couple of months.

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I have been given and enjoy working on the different projects. I can't thank the Council and my team enough for being so inclusive and understanding and helping me reach my full potential in this ongoing experience."

The work experience programme has continued at a pace into the new year, with five placements already arranged this year. Students will work alongside council officers across various departments, including Customer Services and Planning. The students develop their social skills and confidence by working with the public and in specialist areas such as planning by attending site visits with the Planning Team. The Council's Human Resources team supports students throughout the process, starting with an informal interview leading to the eventual placement. Valuable feedback is provided along the way to arm students with the skills needed to apply for their chosen future careers.

Councillor Ken James, Leader of Torridge of District Council, said:

"We are proud to be able to provide students with a unique insight into the fantastic variety of careers Torridge District Council has to offer and, at the same time, help them hone their work skills. It's fantastic to see Charlie thriving at the Council, and he is quickly becoming a crucial member of the Economic Development Team. He has inspired councillors and officers alike with his fantastic 'can do' attitude and positive outlook. 

Anyone can apply for work experience at the Council, so please don't hesitate to contact the Council's Human Resources team if you are interested in a placement.".

Torridge's Human Resources team is always enthusiastic to hear from schools, colleges or prospective students. Please email: hr@torridge.gov.uk or call 01237 428700 for more information.

Photo left to right: Clare Fisher, Job Coach, Petroc. Charlie Wright, Intern Student. Chris Fuller, Economic Development Officer, TDC. Adrian Avery, Community Project Officer, TDC. Dave Hobson, Supported Internship Program Manager, Petroc.