Monday, 03 October 2011

Work Experience Success at Lexus Leicester- by Nitisha Joshi

‘Educating, inspiring and motivating young minds.’   Just another thing that Lexus Leicester engage in, to ensure that the young people of today are provided with the best knowledge of the working world before they embark on their journey into full time employment.  The Work Experience programme is now a widely recognised element of the GCSE curriculum in many schools across the country, providing students with the unique opportunity to gain a first-hand experience of the world of work, usually in the form of a two week placement. With little or no experience of the working world at the age of 15, the idea of considering potential career goals seems daunting, fortunately the placement is designed to eliminate those initial fears and open a positive outlook to a working environment.  As a former work experience student, I understand how much can be gained and the positive effect an experience such as this can have on young people today.  I, along with two fellow colleagues, came to Lexus Leicester at the age of 15 as students, and were given the gift of work experience, a chance to embrace the world of work with both hands and create a future for ourselves within Sytner.  We were given the chance to work in an environment where each person is treated as an individual, where success is celebrated and where everyone works together as a team to achieve.  Where leadership figures are personalities to aspire to and are role models for young people like us.

Josh Marston currently works as a Technician at Lexus Leicester after successfully completing his apprenticeship, while Jack Dodsley is in the process of completing his apprenticeship. Speaking about their opportunity they both commented, ‘ Our work experience placement bought into light the career we would aspire to achieve, but the opportunity to work at Lexus Leicester full time, makes this career ambition possible. The enthusiasm and willingness of staff, to educate and enrich us is a continuous symbol of Sytner Group’s true passion to celebrate achievement and highlight talent.’

I was given the opportunity to continue in full-time education whilst working at Lexus Leicester as the Centre Host, and after 4 years and only 1 year left until graduation, I am positive that I would like to continue my career within Sytner. The initial Work Experience programme not only taught me practical skills but also aided in personal development. At an instance, the tenacity and hard work of my colleagues was apparent, their drive and passion was inspiring and I continue to look up to them and aspire to adopt their qualities through my working life.

One can teach the fundaments, fact and figures of a business, however combining this with lessons in team work, self confidence and diligence, makes something truly influential and invigorating. We were thoroughly enriched by the experience, leaving us passionate and determined to achieve more, now as members of the Sytner team we continue to maintain that drive.

I was fortunate to partake in the Work Experience programme. I feel honoured to work for Sytner group.  I feel proud to be part of the Lexus Leicester team.