Cymoedd learners experience life in Tuscany

A group of Cymoedd learners recently spent ten days experiencing life in Tuscany – a visit arranged through Erasmus+ ; a European Union Programme for education, training, youth and sport.

The nine learners studying on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business and Levels 2 & 3 Business Administration Apprentices travelled with three members of staff to Italy as part of a Work Experience Programme.

The Programme provided the learners with an opportunity to spend time in a beautiful part of the world; experiencing living and working in a different culture. The work placements were extremely varied ranging from an international business consultancy, health and fitness clubs to a tourism company, promoting and writing blogs about excursions in Italy.

The group developed and demonstrated a wide range of business skills throughout their Work Experience.  Excellent communication and problem solving skills were vitally important, together with the ability to work as part of a team.  The learners showed that they were adaptable to new situations, working flexibly to meet the needs of their host organisations.  This opportunity enabled them to show independence and resourcefulness, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.

Keen to experience as much of the country as possible, the learners sampled the local food in Montecatini Therme, their base during their stay. On the weekend, they made use of the Italian transport system to visit many places including Pisa, the Christmas markets at Florence and further afield to take in the culture and beautiful sites of Rome.

Paige Davies, Level 3 apprentice at GE Aviation who took part in the visit said, “The trip to Italy was definitely one to remember! We were given an amazing opportunity to spend two weeks undertaking work experience in another country, not only finding out how other companies operate but also trying to fit in to a company that doesn’t speak the same language.

It has helped me realise that barriers are only barriers if you let them get in the way of what you want to achieve. It also has helped me gain more confidence in not only myself but also in my ability and skills to overcome things, I never thought I could. It has definitely made me consider working in another country in the future. I would definitely recommend this experience to everyone who has the chance!

Course Tutor Yvonne Morris who accompanied the learners on the trip added, “This Programme was a fantastic opportunity for our Business learners to gain experience of working and living in a different country. The skills developed through their placements and the confidence gained by each of our learners during their time in Italy will undoubtedly stand them in good stead for their future careers and will be something they will remember for many years to come”.

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