Blackburn Case Study

Transforming Work Placements At Blackburn College

We spoke with Alison Thompson of Blackburn College, the Work Placement Operations Manager, to see how we’ve helped them streamline their work experience programme, making work experience management efficient with minimal staffing.

Why Is Career Planning Important For Students At Blackburn College?

Alison believes that early career planning is crucial for students. 

“Work experience provides a vital first step on the career ladder, helping students to explore their interests and make informed decisions about their future career paths,” she explains. 

This practical experience not only guides students towards careers they are passionate about but also helps them understand what they might not want to pursue.

How Has The Changing Education Group Improved Blackburn College’s Work Placement Programme?

The Changing Education Group’s platform has streamlined Blackburn College’s work placement operations. 

Alison highlights several key improvements:

Streamlined Placement Management:
The platform has simplified the administrative process of matching students with placements, saving time and reducing complexity

Enhanced Employer Engagement:
Alison’s team uses the platform to onboard and communicate with employers more efficiently

Optimised Communication:
The app allows students to access placement details, learning contracts, and feedback all in one place, which is particularly appealing to today’s tech-savvy students

What Impact Has The Platform Had On Student Experience And Success Rates?

The integration of The Changing Education Group’s platform has led to significant improvements in student outcomes:

High Placement Success Rate:
Blackburn College achieved a 97% placement rate last year, with 76% of students completing physical work placements

Enriched Learning Experiences:
The platform has facilitated successful projects, such as motivational workshops with speakers like Adam Corley, which have greatly enhanced students’ practical learning experiences

What Are Alison Thompson’s Favourite Aspects Of Working With The Changing Education Group?

Alison appreciates several aspects of the platform, particularly its efficiency and customer support. 

“The platform has streamlined our processes and provided exceptional customer service,” she notes. 

The ability to quickly resolve issues and the platform’s user-friendly design have been especially beneficial.

How Has The Platform Benefited Students Directly?

Students at Blackburn College have greatly benefited from the platform’s features. 

Alison points out that the app allows students to easily access placement information, learning contracts, and feedback. 

“They love having everything in one place, and the tech-friendly nature of the platform aligns well with their preferences,” she adds.

What Sets The Changing Education Group Apart From Other Providers?

Alison highlights the platform’s Programme Builder as a standout feature. 

Introduced after Blackburn College first adopted the platform, Programme Builder has allowed the college to organise virtual work experience programmes effectively. 

“It’s been a game-changer for us, helping us to manage a high volume of placements and engage students with interactive content,” Alison explains.

What Advice Does Alison Thompson Have For Students Starting Their Work Experience Journey?

Alison advises students to approach their work experience with determination and resilience. 

“Work hard, stay motivated, and be resilient. These qualities will help you achieve your career goals and dreams,” she suggests.

What Are Alison Thompson’s Future Aspirations For Work Experience And Career Development At Blackburn College?

Looking ahead, Alison is excited about the potential success of T Levels and the further development of industry partnerships. 

“Our goal is to make T Levels a success and to continue improving our work experience programme,” she says. 

At The Changing Education Group, we are committed to supporting T Levels by providing tailored resources and expertise. 

Our comprehensive work experience programme is designed to integrate seamlessly with T Levels, ensuring students gain meaningful, industry-relevant experience.

The Changing Education Group has significantly improved Blackburn College’s work placement programme, enhancing efficiency, student satisfaction, and overall success. 

Alison Thompson’s positive experiences with the platform underscore its impact on staff and students.

If you want to discover how The Changing Education Group can transform your work placement programme, contact us today to book a provision review.

Contact Us

Email:  info@changingeducationgroup.com

Website: www.changingeducationgroup.com