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ESS, the Defence, Energy and Government Services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland, has partnered with Bedford College, part of The Bedford College Group, to deliver the ‘First Steps’ supported internship at its MOD Chicksands site.
The programme is providing students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) an opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a variety of roles.
ESS joined the Central Bedfordshire Council SEND Employment Forum to identify opportunities for providing an access to work initiative and established the link with Bedford College. The organisations worked together to develop a bespoke course for students aged 18-24 who have completed their formal college education but are experiencing barriers to employment.
Twelve students are now undertaking a year-long internship which sees them completing a series of placements in ESS’ catering, retail and cleaning departments. The participants rotate across the three areas and gain experience in a variety of roles and tasks, giving them the chance to see what they are interested in.
On joining, the interns took part in a two-week induction covering the ESS business, health and safety, customer experience, a treasure hunt to familiarise them with the site and the issuing of uniforms. They also undertook travel training to prepare them for getting the bus to and from site. Parents or guardians were invited to introductory sessions to learn more about what their children would be doing throughout the year.
‘First Steps’ has proven to be a great success at Chicksands, with three individuals already being offered permanent positions with ESS.
Louise Smith, Head of Foundation at The Bedford College Group, commented: “We are delighted to be working in collaboration with ESS to provide excellent opportunities for our students. It is a priority for us to be able to support students to further develop their skills and knowledge through real life work experience with the aim of supporting them to gain paid outcomes. We hope that this is just the start of a long partnership with ESS.”
Michael Southerden, ESS General Manager at MOD Chicksands, commented: “The First Steps interns have quickly become a valuable part of the ESS team here at Chicksands. They’ve fully embraced the programme and are really getting to grips with the various tasks delivered by our catering, retail and cleaning colleagues. I’m so pleased to be a part of the programme and I couldn’t be prouder of the interns and my team for their positive, proactive approach to it.”
Bob Gray, Managing Director – ESS Defence, Marine & Aerospace, added: “Compass Group UK & Ireland’s ‘Mission to a Million’ commits to enhancing the opportunities for one million people from both within and outside the organisation by 2030. Programmes such as First Steps delivered in partnership with Bedford College really brings this pledge to life and I’m delighted at the progress the students have made during their time with us.”
As environmental protection demands unified action, transparency, and heightened awareness, Biological Preparations has launched an initiative to catalyse sustainability efforts within the FM sector.
FM businesses face unique challenges and heightened expectations of eco-initiatives from their clients. Yet, behind the scenes in FM businesses, many environmental initiatives, rollouts and even planning, are not broadcasted and transparent.
Have your say: Sustainability Trends in FM
The UK biotech company’s five-minute, anonymous FM-focused survey, offers FM professionals of all hierarchies with a platform to voice their perspectives and share their experiences. The results from this survey will then be analysed and presented as an industry-specific report, which aims to guide FM businesses helping them benchmark trends, gain clarity on industry challenges, and map out goals and metrics towards sustainability.
To share your experiences, please click here.
