During the week starting the 1 July, a group of five students from Wellington Academy in Tidworth and St John’s School in Marlborough had the opportunity to immerse themselves into the world of Aspire Defence Services Limited (ADSL). This experience was not just about observing from a distance, but rather actively participating in various tasks alongside professionals in different departments. 

From shadowing the Helpdesk Team during live calls to assisting the Finance Team with number crunching, the students gained a first-hand insight into the daily operations of a dynamic workplace. This hands-on experience not only broadened their understanding of the industry but also sparked their interest in potential career paths for the future.  

The students had the chance to interact with twelve different departments overall, each offering a unique perspective on the services they provide. One of the most memorable moments for the students was visiting an active construction site with the Capital Projects Team, where they witnessed the knowledge, experience and capability required for such large-scale projects.  

The week not only showcased the diverse range of roles within the company but also highlighted the importance of collaboration and hard work in achieving common goals. By exposing the students to various aspects of the business, they were able to appreciate the interconnectedness of various departments, the collaborative effort required for success in achieving our mission of Making Soldiers’ Lives Better and why our value of Delivering Together is so crucial. 

As the week came to a close, the students concluded their learning by creating a comprehensive presentation that captured everything they had absorbed about Aspire’s rich history, our core mission and the valuable lessons they learned throughout the week. This presentation not only served as a platform for them to showcase their newfound knowledge but also provided an opportunity for them to receive feedback and reflect on their overall experience. It was a moment of pride and accomplishment for both the students and the mentors who guided them through the week.  

Hear from one of the students themselves: “Thank you for the Work Experience Week. The presentation helped me gain confidence in public speaking and the placement has helped me gain insight into what the future could look like at work.” 

As part of our commitment to nurturing young talent, we believe in the importance of Work Experience Weeks in helping students explore their interests, strengths and aspirations. By providing a platform for students to engage with professionals, network and gain practical skills, we aim to empower them to make informed decisions about their future careers. Our Early Careers Strategy focuses on creating opportunities for personal growth and development, while also fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Through initiatives like Work Experience Weeks, we strive to inspire the next generation and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in a competitive job market. 

Curious to learn more about our engaging Work Experience Weeks and how you can be part of one? Our programme caters to individuals starting from Year 9 and above, ensuring that there are opportunities available to everyone interested in gaining valuable work experience. Additionally, we extend our support to Armed Forces personnel transitioning from the Army, providing them with unique work experience opportunities that align with their skills and interests. 

If you are interested in applying or would like more details, please don’t hesitate to reach out by sending an email to People.Services@aspiredefence.co.uk.