Albert Jagger hails T Level placement as dual training and development opportunity

A work experience opportunity at a Walsall-based manufacturer has turned into a two-way training model for its workforce and a Walsall College student.

Albert Jagger recently welcomed Lewis Edrop to its head office to complete a 45-day industry placement for his T Level course in Engineering and Manufacturing.  In doing so, staff have been developing their own mentoring and collaborative skills alongside him.

“Having seen Lewis settle in so well with us, we know the potential is there to share the collective expertise and experiences of our teams more widely,” said Umar Farooq, Head of Engineering at Albert Jagger.

“We’ve quickly come to value Lewis’s input, whether that’s during our brainstorming sessions or through his project work.  Now we’re open to the idea of creating a more rounded work experience programme that goes further in inspiring the next generation while enhancing our organisation’s success.”

During his time with the company so far, Lewis has worked on the shopfloor and in new product development.

“I am grateful for the opportunity that Albert Jagger has provided me with,” said Lewis.  “Many students are facing challenges in securing work experience opportunities with engineering companies so I’m thankful I was taken on.

“This placement has given me valuable insights into all aspects of the business, which I would not have gained during my time in college.

“I appreciate all the advice everyone at Albert Jagger has provided, including what my career may look like and how to bring out the best in myself.”

The T Level is Engineering and Manufacturing is a new two-year qualification aimed at 16-18-year olds looking to start careers in engineering, specialising in installation, maintenance and repair in a mechanical setting.

A mix of classroom learning and practical experience, it enables them to gain perform workshop-based tasks in maintenance, installation, servicing, and repair using appropriate techniques while analysing requirements, specifications and technical data.

On achieving the qualification which is equivalent to three A Levels, students can progress into employment, a higher level apprenticeship or a specialist engineering degree.

Find out more about T Level industry placements here.