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| Richard Wydell has just finished his GCSEs and is moving into sixth form in September. He attends Wath Comprehensive in South Yorkshire. During Year 10 he worked in a music store in a large shopping complex near Sheffield. |
 Setting up the placement
All the pupils were given a list of possible work placements but Richard, like some of the others, asked if he could arrange his own. He has always been a keen musician and intends to study the subject at least up to 'A' level. Though he hasn't made any firm plans for his career post-18, he would happy if music were included in those plans.
He was delighted when the music store agreed to a placement. It is a popular store, used by a wide cross-section of people, and at most times of the week is very busy due to its location in a large shopping complex.
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What were the benefits?
The store introduced Richard to basic retail skills such as customer relations, handling money and demonstrating products. They were pleased with his keyboard skills, and he was often asked to demonstrate musical equipment to potential customers.
The placement was due to last from two to three weeks but Richard asked for a work extension, supported by the shop, and he worked there for five-and-a-half weeks in total.
The placement was a huge success for several reasons. It was an extension of Richard's interests; the shop accepted their responsibilities and showed a commitment to training; Richard had an enthusiasm for his work so that he did his job well; the shop appreciated Richard's talent and contributions to the retail team.
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