Middlesbrough College students head overseas for the opportunity of a lifetime

Middlesbrough College students get the opportunity of a lifetime thanks to the UK’s Turing Scheme.

The Turing Scheme is the UK’s global programme for studying, working and living abroad, offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for personal and professional development for students.

As part of the scheme, 30 Middlesbrough College students travelled to Spain for two-week work placements. 20 of the students, studying courses in Sport & Exercise Science and Public Services, were based in the heart of Seville and completed sessions at the Cartuja training facilities.

Phil Wennington, Level 3 Sport & Exercise Science student, said: “My favourite thing about the trip has been the training we’ve completed at the Cartuja Club as it’s been very specific to my personal goals. It’s also been eye-opening to find out more about training in Seville compared to training back at home.

“It’s been very good for my personal development and my advice to someone applying for this would be to go for it as it’s a brilliant opportunity.”

Level 3 Sport & Exercise Science student Fliss Stockdale said: “My favourite thing about this programme has been getting to train everyday and meet new people.

“I’ve also loved experiencing the culture! We’ve been able to look around the city and do things we wouldn’t be able to experience in the UK.

“I’d definitely recommend this trip. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and you’ll get to experience new things. If you’re thinking of doing it but aren’t sure, I’d say just go for it!”

10 Engineering students also headed to Lebrija for their work placements, which included housing and motor vehicle projects.

Samuel Martin, T Level Electrical Maintenance, Installation & Repairs student, said: “We’ve been over in Lebrija to work on a housing project, and we’ve been able to do things such as electrical wiring, pulling cable and chiselling walls which has been a great experience.

“My favourite thing about the trip has been getting to play football when it’s sunny!”

As well as developing their professional skills, the students had the opportunity to develop crucial life skills, such as cooking, household chores, timekeeping and money management, which has helped prepare them for life after College.

Katharine Hawking, Head of Work Experience at Middlesbrough College, said: “In a nutshell the Turing Scheme programme has provided our students with a once-in-a lifetime international experience! It’s been really successful, not only did they gain an opportunity to undertake a work placement in their chosen industry, but the trip also allowed them to gain an insight into that industry in another country and to experience another language and culture.

“Some of the students have never been abroad before so working independently, time keeping for their work placements and managing their own finances – all in another country provided important life skills that go beyond the trip.”

If you want to find out more about the opportunities available under the Turing Scheme, please email placements@mbro.ac.uk.