Global structural steel firm REIDsteel is giving local students an insight into the world of work.
The Christchurch-based firm has welcomed the latest two work experience placements from the town’s Twynham School to its offices and manufacturing facility in Reid Street.
Year 10 pupils Milo and Tyler, gained valuable hands-on experience during a structured programme in the company’s design and production departments.
Donna Campo, Operations Director at REIDsteel, said: “We aim to give work experience students a meaningful and practical experience, which provides them with an insight into our company and opportunities within our industry.
“We believe it is important to support our local community and schools, whilst also building relationships to encourage the next generation to think of the diverse and rewarding careers on offer with REIDsteel
“It was a pleasure to host Milo and Tyler, who were a credit to themselves and their school.”
Tyler was based in production, where he spent time in the pre-fabrication, sheet metal, glazing and fabrication workshops. Tyler also worked in the yard and had a chance to try his hand at welding.
He said: “I know what a variety of jobs options there are within the industry now and I’m pretty sure that it’s something I want to pursue for the future.”
Milo, who was based in design, said: “My favourite part was learning so many things. I was able to take away an understanding of what it’s like to be in a work environment.”
REIDsteel, with a 120-strong workforce, has built strong links with local schools over many years.
It regularly attends the annual Careers and Apprenticeship Show at Bournemouth International Centre.
Donna visited the Twynham School recently to conduct mock interviews with Year 10 students.
REIDsteel is one of the sponsors of the Twynham Learning Festival of Education on June 29 at the school from 10.30am to 2.30pm. Visitors will be able to try their hand at virtual welding on the firm’s stand.
REIDsteel, which has a ‘one team’ ethos to emphasise the value it places on every employee, has also backed a new WorkEx Directory launched by Dorset Careers Hub and Dorset Chamber to reinvent work experience.
It is one of the first companies to sign up to the initiative which aims to increase the range and number of work experience opportunities for young people.
A directory of participating businesses will be published in September 2024 and be available for schools.
Business can offer a range of experiences. These could include virtual work experience, site tours, taster days, two or three day experiences, one or two week placements, or an extended placement, such as an afternoon a week.
REIDsteel currently has a number of career opportunities on offer. They include Quantity Surveyor, Cladding Draughtsperson, Steel Erector, Structural Engineer, Trainee Production Operative, Yard Operative and Production Administrator.
REIDsteel, founded in 1919, designs, manufactures and erects all types of steel framed structures including cladding, glazing, roofing and doors. It has exported to more 140 countries to date.
The company is a Platinum Business Partner of Dorset Chamber.
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