Students Ben and Conner are really seeing their horticulture skills flourish thanks to their weekly work experience with Ludlow Town Council’s Direct Labour Force (DLF) team.
Both students, who are part of our Ludlow campus Work and Independence programme, spend one day a week working alongside the Council’s outdoor team, supported by one of our Learning Support Assistants and the experienced DLF staff. It has been fantastic to watch their confidence grow as they develop real horticulture skills in genuine working environments.
Their weekly tasks take them around the town cemetery and other public spaces, where they have been busy shearing bushes, using leaf blowers and rakes, weeding, helping with maintenance including grave areas, and keeping local spaces clean and tidy. The variety of calm, focused jobs and more physical activities has given each of them the chance to shine and build on their individual strengths.
We have seen them grow in practical skills, communication, teamwork, and independence. Their enthusiasm and reliability have made a real impression on the Council team, who have supported them to try new tasks and expand their skills.
DLF Supervisor Mark Hilton told us: “It has been wonderful having Conner and Ben with us. They bring real enthusiasm to their work, and the DLF team has enjoyed supporting them as they build new skills and experience. We’re proud to be part of their journey.”
Great experience
The students agree that the placement is already making a difference. Ben said: “It’s good. I’ve learnt a lot and it’s a great experience for myself.” Conner added: “I enjoy it. It’s helping me get ready for life after college in horticulture.”
Alongside this placement, both students follow a full five days a week timetable at our Ludlow campus, including independent living skills, wellbeing activities, and functional skills to help prepare them for adulthood.
Natalie Martin, our Work Experience and Supported Internship Coordinator, said: “Work experience is a vital part of helping our students build confidence, develop real world skills, and understand the world of work. Partnerships like this make a real difference to our students’ futures by providing a valuable placement. We thank Ludlow Town Council for their support and look forward to continued work experience opportunities going forward.”
We are proud of Conner and Ben and grateful for the warm support from Ludlow Town Council in creating inclusive and meaningful opportunities for our students.
