Adam's Story

Adam shows dedication!!

Adam Plumpton from Kings Grove is in the second year of his extended work experience at Shaun Walley Auto Body repair specialist.

Adam has been on a placement since Nov 06 he has gradually built up to three days a week. He has been learning about rubbing down, filling, polishing, taking wings and panels off and replacing them when re-sprayed Adam has also learned about engine repair work.

Before Adam started on this placement he didn’t enjoy the school environment and felt he wasn’t learning the kind of things he would like to be learning, he was happy to be referred for a placement so he could develop his skills and help to prepare him for a career when he leaves school.

Adam cycled to his placement for the first few days although it was a journey of a few miles, this dedication impressed the employer so much that he started giving Adam a lift to and from work and has offered him a Saturday job as well.

Adam got on well with all the staff from the very beginning and felt like part of the team, he says “we always have a laugh at work as well as doing a great job”

Adam says he like to go to his placement because he feels grown up and is treated like an employee, he is now answering the telephone and talking to customers in a professional way this has all helped his confidence.

Shaun Walley, the Owner of the business says he makes a point of teaching Adam how to do tasks to the required standard so he can ensure that he understands how to carry out the job correctly.
Shaun has created a good atmosphere and ambiance by being relaxed but firm in relation to the standard of work.
When I asked the employer why he feels the placement has worked he says its because “Adam appreciates the time and support given to helping him” he also says that “it is good to see the young person engaging in a work environment and watching them gain experience and building up confidence”.

When I asked Shaun about why he has decided to support the work experience programme he explained that he left school at 16 and had no idea what he wanted to do, he was lucky to be able to learn about custom paint work through a friend – he now owns his own business, Shaun can relate to Adam and finds it rewarding to help a young person get back on track.

Adams behaviour in school has greatly improved and he now feels more focused and able to concentrate on what he needs for the future, he is now on a reduced timetable at Kings grove but is keeping up well with his coursework.

When Adam leaves school he would like to learn more about car body repairs and this opportunity has given him the chance to develop his skills in something he is interested in and given him a real chance of being employed in the industry.