Work experience is an integral part of our learners' educational journey as it gives them the chance to experience a real-world working environment with hands-on experience which will give them a better understanding of their future career path. 

One of our Sixth Form learners, Ryan, has exceeded expectations by landing a placement in Belize in Central America with his stepdad working with two organisations, Defence Infrastructure Organisation Belize (DIO), and the British Army Training Support Unit Belize (BATSUB). This placement is a fantastic opportunity that will give Ryan invaluable experience and transferrable skills that he can use in the future. 

Ryan is currently in his second year of A Levels at our Sixth Form, studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics, and is even teaching himself AS Sociology at home. Ryan has also received a conditional offer from the University of Nottingham to study an integrated master's degree in Theoretical Astrophysics. He is an outstanding student that works extremely hard to not only succeed academically but also prepare for his future. 

For his work experience, Ryan will be working for two organisations; DIO which is responsible for managing overseas defence estates (barracks, bases, camps, etc), and for BATSUB which is a training establishment for short term jungle training of British troops.  

During this week, he will be working on the installation of underground electrical cables in trenches, feeder pillars and Distribution Substations, conducting building refurbishment on technical and domestic accommodation, and conducting statutory and reactive maintenance. 

Ryan is confident that this placement will benefit him massively, saying “learning to experience a workplace environment and completing non-academic tasks will give me much needed experience for any future job.  

I will gain exclusive insight into military careers and manual labour (trade/skilled labour) but also cultural insight into life in Belize (should I wish to take a gap year there with family). I will learn key skills including communication, risk management (dynamic and planned), and teamwork.  

I consider myself extremely lucky to have these opportunities available to me. I’ve lived in many places around the country as a service child and have experienced a large variety of different school environments. I think this has allowed me to develop my adaptability which will benefit me in my role.” 

Due to his familiarity with Belize, Ryan confirmed that he is comfortable with completing his work experience there and is feeling excited to work in such a professional environment, being given responsibilities and important tasks that will provide him with invaluable, hands-on experience and transferrable skills that he can use in his future career. 

Thank you to Ryan for sharing his story and we wish you all the best for your upcoming work experience.  

If you’re interested in applying to join our Sixth Form in September, click here.