A Government-run programme that gave Bermudian students internships ended last week with two careers guidance webinars.

The Department of Workforce Development’s summer employment programme put 75 students in summer placements across the Government, private and non-profit sectors.

The students were encouraged to develop their leadership and decision-making skills over the summer.

In addition to first-hand experience in their fields, the students were given a $6,000 stipend over the 10 week programme.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Labour, said the experience was “integral” to the future success of the participants.

He added: “It allows them to apply their knowledge and gain critical work experience that can be used later in life when seeking employment.

“This Government will remain committed to our students and providing this invaluable opportunity.”

Ryley Tannock, a student at the University of Law in Birmingham in the UK, said he was fortunate to work with the Department of Public Prosecutions and shadow a Crown counsel.

Mr Tannock added: “Now, I can include the experience of working in and around criminal law and litigation in my CV to enhance my professional development and background information.

“As I continue pursuing my educational goals and career, I feel even more confident in my ability to achieve success in my chosen programme.”

Jordyn Ming, who studies early childhood development at the University of Derby in the UK, said she was able to develop her skills at the Happy Valley Child Care Centre.

Ms Ming added: “This time helped me learn to be more patient and open-minded when managing the kids because they are all different.

“I realised the need to have fun, be goofy, and step out of my comfort zone.

“The work ethic and experiences I’ve gained will be applied to my future studies and career.”

Justin Bascome-Dickinson, an architecture student at the University of Preston in the UK, said: “Throughout this summer internship, I’ve remodelled the kitchen, cafeteria, and outdoor seating at Fort Langton and completed inspections at locations like the new airport Covid-19 screening area.

“Along the way, one major lesson I’ve learnt while working in the field is always to have a back-up plan – architecture is a very client-based field.

“Things can change overnight, and you might need to modify your original plan.

“The second thing I have done this summer that has helped me is inspections. Architects should have a good understanding of what inspectors look for. Going on-site visits and doing inspections has pushed my work to another level.”

Brandon Phillips, who recently obtained a Bachelor's degree in sports at UK’s Doncaster University, said he was happy to be able to gain hands-on experience.

He added: “We have been able to communicate and work together as a team very well.

“Going on radio stations and sharing my life experience and finding something enjoyable outside of sport has been a new and great experience.”

The Department of Workforce Development Summer Employment Programme accept applications for the 2022 placements from January.

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3AUCevo.