Growing Local Talent in Newham

Five work experience students joined us to gain an insight into the world of work

For more than 145 years, Newham has been home to our business. The people of our local community have helped shape who we are today, which is why we’re invested in creating opportunities for young people to develop themselves and explore their future careers.

Each year, we welcome work experience students from local schools, giving them the chance to experience life at the factory on their doorstep and discover the many different careers that help keep our business running.

This year, five Year 10 and Year 12 students joined our Training, Environment, Finance, Human Resources and Corporate Affairs teams. Throughout the week, they shadowed colleagues, supported day-to-day activities and completed independent projects, gaining valuable experience and a first-hand insight into the world of work.

“This was an opportunity which I haven’t had before so I am very grateful for it and I learned a lot.”

– Godiva, Corporate Affairs work experience student from Harris Science Academy

Godiva spent the week in Corporate Affairs alongside two other students. Working on a group project helped her develop her communication and teamwork skills, while also giving her a better understanding of the wide range of careers that exist within a business like Tate & Lyle Sugars.

The week also encouraged students to think about their future ambitions and the many different paths that can lead to a successful career.

“It has allowed me to understand how there can be multiple different pathways to reach the variety of different roles at Tate and Lyle”

– Tasnim, Environment work experience student

Working with our Environment department, Tasnim gained an insight into the engineering, management and operational expertise required to run a modern manufacturing site. She also learned just how many different skills and specialisms contribute to the success of our refinery, and the variety of people we need to keep it running.

Meanwhile, our student in the Training department found that work is about much more than completing tasks.

“I liked the people here as they were very helpful and kind. This week helped me as it showed there’s more to a job than just work- it’s also about people.”

– Training work experience student

Her experience highlighted something many of the students reflected on during the week: it was the people who made the biggest impression. From learning new skills to building confidence, the students found that the people who work here are really what make Tate & Lyle Sugars.

As they returned to school, they took away not only a better understanding of the workplace, but also a clearer picture of the opportunities that could lie ahead.