Two students from our Walford campus have been recognised for their dedication and professionalism during weekly work placements at Core Gym in Oswestry.
Brayden and Mason were presented with certificates during their final session at the gym, where they’ve spent one day a week as part of their Work and Independence pathway, with a focus on sport. Gym owner Ollie Burnett praised their hard work and thanked them for their commitment and progress over two years.
Ollie said: “I’m very proud to award them with certificates to mark two years of work experience as assistant fitness instructors. During their time here, they’ve carried out maintenance and safety checks on our gym equipment, kept the gym environment clean and tidy, assisted with stock management, designed and delivered training programmes and have completed induction assessments. I’ve loved seeing them progress, and their confidence grow, over the two years.
Starting with cleaning and equipment maintenance checks, Brayden and Mason have gradually taken on more responsibility, including supporting with gym member inductions, a clear sign of the trust and confidence they earned over their two years at the gym.
Confident and independent
They have been supported each week by Learning Support Practitioner and job coach Zoe Calloway, who said:
“We’re so grateful to Ollie and for the great relationship we’ve had with Core Gym. Over two years, we’ve seen Brayden and Mason’s confidence grow so much. It’s at placements like this that our students really shine. They’re treated like any other staff member, and I’ve been able to step back and let them get on with their jobs. They’ve gone from being quiet and shy and scared of making mistakes, to being confident and independent.”
Student Mason added: “We’ve enjoyed working at Core Gym every week. We’ve learnt how to be professional and how to support new members, but we’ve also had some fun. Thanks, Ollie!”
In addition to Core Gym, both students have completed placements at Shrewsbury Sports Village and The Keystone Academy in Shrewsbury. Their full-time timetable at Derwen College Walford campus includes a BTEC Introductory Certificate in Sport, functional skills, PSHE, independent living skills, and wellbeing.
Brayden and Mason will continue their career journey in September, starting Supported Internships to further enhance their work skills and opportunities for employment after College.
Catching up with Jack
During their final visit to Core Gym, the team were also delighted to catch up with former Derwen Colllege Walford student Jack, who is now employed part-time at the gym and also works as a lifeguard at Oswestry Leisure Centre. Jack continues to pursue his passion for sport through gymnastics and trampolining, and is working towards further qualifications in the sports and fitness sector.