Safeguarding

Merton College has enjoyed a strong partnership with DRK Lighting, as they have offered valuable work placements to many of our Level 3 Electrical students over the years. This has provided hands-on experience that has been instrumental in helping them to successfully complete their courses. The company has also supported our learners by offering part-time employment that fits around their study schedules.

Adam Roberts, CEO of DRK Lighting, contacted our Employability Team, expressing an interest in filling four new roles with current College students or alumni. This demonstrated his continued commitment to supporting emerging talent from our community.

One of our Level 3 Business students, 18-year-old Alisha, attended an interview at DRK’s Chessington office for an administrative position. She was successful in securing the role, where she will work two days a week alongside her studies, with a pathway to full-time employment once she has completed her course. Alisha's success is a wonderful example of the opportunities that strong employer partnerships can create for our students.

Alisha recently started her employment and Isobel Gower, Project Manager at DRK, commented: "I just wanted to say a big thank you for sending Alisha our way – she had her first day and was amazing! Very intelligent and quick to learn."

Alisha says: "I’m really excited to have secured a role at DRK Lighting! My business coursework, especially unit 8 on interviews, helped me prepare and build confidence, which I believe played a big part in securing the role. I am looking forward to gaining hands-on experience and developing practical skills such as teamwork, problem-solving and professional communication which will be essential as I take the next steps in my career."