University boost for pupils with learning difficulties

Wednesday 6 April 2011

The aim of the project is to give the students the opportunity to develop employability skills, and to benefit from hands-on experience in a workplace. The students are working in various locations around the campus including assisting at Surrey Design and Print, the Lakeside restaurant which specialises in training of Hospitality students and the Accommodation Offices.

One student Jack Saunders, who worked in the Lakeside restaurant, said: "I have enjoyed my time here. I especially liked working with Michael, the head chef, who has been helping me out with cooking different foods and understanding where they come from.

“The work placement has helped me focus more on the job in hand and it has
confirmed the work that I want to do when I leave college. It has already helped me go further in my catering career as I have proved myself capable in the work place."

Angie Cousins, Equality and Diversity Manager for the University praised the scheme, saying: "As the area’s largest employer, it is great that we are leading the way amongst local businesses in supporting this initiative. Helping local people to flourish is part of the responsibility and joy of working at the University of Surrey and we look forward to continuing this in future."

The Employment Works initiative is carried out in conjunction with Surrey County Council’s EmployAbility group.

Notes to Editors:

EmployAbility was established in 2006 as the not-for-profit organisation dedicated to assisting students and graduates with all disabilities, including dyslexia or long term health conditions, into employment.

Media Enquiries

Howard Wheeler, Press Office at the University of Surrey, Tel: +44 (0)1483 686141, or Email mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk