Nursing home embraces industry placements
27 March 2019
Charlotte James Nursing Home in Burton has been getting on board with industry placements in partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC).
Level 3 Health and Social Care student, Magdalena Polanska has been given the opportunity to gain real work experience for two days per week alongside her college studies.
Industry placements give students on Level 3 technical education courses the chance to put their knowledge and technical skills into practice in the workplace.
This involves a 45-60 day placement in a relevant role with an employer where students can gain the skills they need in their future careers. Meanwhile, employers are able to nurture the next generation of workers while benefitting from an extra member of staff with fresh ideas.
Speaking about her placement, Magdalena commented: “My industry placement at Charlotte James Nursing Home is going really well. I really like talking to people; it’s amazing to hear about people’s life stories. It’s a nice feeling knowing you can be the person the residents talk to that day. I now know what the job is and what it looks like in real life.
“I would like to become a social worker in the future and this placement has helped me to improve my communication skills in the workplace. It’s good to learn about the role in practice and I know it’s going to help me in the future.”
During her placement, Magdalena is being mentored by staff, including Maria Carthy, Manager of Charlotte James Nursing Home. Maria said: “I’m a big believer in helping young people to develop their skills, so I was pleased to take on a student to do an industry placement here. It’s been nice to have somebody coming in from outside to speak to our residents. Magda is delightful; she’s willing to learn and put the effort in, and takes everything on board.
“I’m passionate about nursing and care; I’ve done it for a long time. I think it’s important we challenge the stigma attached to care work. It’s not an easy job but it’s rewarding and we’re all committed to helping residents feel at home and making sure they’re well cared for.”
Maria is now an ambassador for industry placements and is encouraging more employers to get involved. She said: “We had never considered offering a placement to a student before but I would recommend other employers to consider it. It’s really good to give back and be a positive role model to people just starting out in their careers.”
Any employers interested in offering a Level 3 student an industry placement can find out more by calling Burton and South Derbyshire College on 01283 494568/01283 494805 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..