At South West College, Hannah Collins, Training Support Officer, plays a vital role in helping individuals with additional needs find meaningful work placements and employment opportunities. We caught up with her to chat about her recent collaboration with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery and the inspiring journey of one young man, Sam.
Hannah, can you tell us a bit more about your role and how you first connected with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery?
Hannah: Absolutely! I met two of your colleagues at an event where they spoke about the Academy. As we chatted, it became clear that what the Academy aims to do and what I do at South West College really align. We saw a great opportunity to work together. Your team introduced me to Kirk, and from there, we arranged a work placement for Sam. He ended up doing a 15-week unpaid placement with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery.
What made you think Rosewood Bespoke Joinery would be a good fit for Sam?
Hannah: I’ve been working with Sam for about three years now, and I’ve seen such incredible growth in him. He’s always shown an interest in joinery, so Rosewood just felt like a natural fit. It was the perfect environment for him to explore that passion.
Do you think Sam got a lot out of the placement?
Hannah:
Oh, absolutely! His confidence and communication skills have come on leaps and bounds – it’s honestly unbelievable.
Being in the workshop, learning about workplace friendships, and experiencing that camaraderie made a huge difference. And of course, he picked up some brilliant joinery skills too. He even built his own unit during his time there! He’s really enjoyed being part of a team and is so proud of what he’s achieved. I’m incredibly proud of him too.
What’s next for Sam?
Hannah: We’re hoping to continue supporting him over the summer to find either a full-time or part-time job, or even a community role where he can really thrive. He’s got so much potential, and we’re excited to see where he goes next.
And how has your experience been working with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery?
Hannah: It’s been amazing. The team has been so accommodating and supportive – not just to Sam, but to me as well. They’ve given Sam a real education in joinery and what it’s like to be part of a working team. Everyone’s been so kind and welcoming. It’s been a truly positive experience.
Looking ahead, do you see more collaborations like this in the future?
Hannah: Definitely. We’d love to continue working with Rosewood Bespoke Joinery whenever we have another young person who could benefit from this kind of experience. It’s been such a success, and I think it’s just the beginning.
