Placement Student of the Year
We’re proud of our track record for graduate employability. Surrey has a long history of supporting year-long placements as part of the student experience, with a heritage going back to its founding roots as the Battersea Institute of Technology.
Each year we recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our students during their placement year in industry.
Professional Training Placement Year
The Professional Training Placement Year (PTY) provides the opportunity for our students to spend 12 months working in the industry, commerce, the public sector, or in charities. It gives them an insight into their subject and career potential and early access to professional experience. It can be invaluable in developing work-based skills and helping them secure a graduate career.
Each year we recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our students during their placement year in the industry. Returning students can nominate themselves or, peer nominations for the Sustainability, Trailblazer, Inclusivity and Resilience Awards, and directors of employability/senior placement tutors nominate students for the Faculty Awards. Students’ experiences while on placement are not only remarkable but have significant real-life impacts.
Each winner receives a prize, and certificate for use on their CV and LinkedIn profiles, and the award will be shown on the student’s final transcript when graduating.
Students currently on placement and returning to their final year, will be contacted via email (by the PT Award Team) advising when the Professional Training Award 2026 applications open in October 2025.
Sustainability Award winner
The nominee should have made a significant contribution to the organisation’s sustainability whilst on placement. This could be in the form of environmental sustainability or social sustainability.
Chiara Mathews
Hospitality and Tourism – Operations and Sustainability Intern at Travel the Unknown
"I believe students should take a Professional Training Year for many reasons, but one of the most valuable is learning what you do - and don’t - enjoy about working in your field. Not only regarding the role/department and work itself, but also the types of work environment, level of independence, and flexibility of location and hours. The defined transition back into studies means that there is more room to explore and learn without the pressure of maintaining your role long-term, and you can explore future jobs with more insight and awareness."
Trailblazer Award winner
The nominee should have done something whilst on placement to identify and/or implement a new innovative change that positively affected their organisation and/or community.
Jessica Ball
Sociology – Placement Year with the Civil Service
"I would encourage any student to consider a placement year! It has not only helped me to develop professionally but has encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, something I would have never done before! This experience will really help you learn about yourself and develop your confidence. I will always be thankful for the opportunities I have gained in my employment and the insight this has provided me. It also helps when you work with an incredible team that really want to see you grow and succeed, I would definitely encourage you to go for it."
Leadership Award winner
The nominee will have shown the ability to influence and guide members of their team or wider organisation while on placement, showing excellent leadership potential.
Elaf Hamid
Law – Shipping Coordinator at the International Law Book Facility (ILBF)
"A Professional Training Year at Surrey isn’t just a career advantage, it’s a transformation. It bridges the gap between theory and real-world impact, pushing you to grow in ways a classroom never could. I went from being hesitant and unsure to leading projects, networking with professionals, and stepping into opportunities I once found intimidating. This experience builds resilience, confidence, and a competitive edge that sets you apart. If you want to challenge yourself, gain invaluable industry insight, and develop the mindset of a leader, take this opportunity, you won’t just advance your career, you’ll redefine your potential."
Inclusivity Award winners
The nominee should have made a significant impact on equality, diversity, and inclusion in their placement year, where they have helped influence the culture of the organisation they worked with or implemented something new to meet diverse customer needs.
Olivia Hope
GSA – Theatre Practitioner at The New Victoria Theatre
"From someone who wasn’t going to do to a placement, I absolutely say do it! You won’t regret doing a PTY but if you don't do it you will always be left with the question, what if? Not only is it a unique learning opportunity that allows you to build vital connections and network within your chosen industry, but it allows you to meet so many truly inspirational people that you will never forget and who will impact on your life forever. I now feel one step ahead before I graduate and a more professional and well-rounded individual."
Faculty winners 2025
Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences
The student could have made a significant contribution to raising the profile of their subject area whilst on placement, or could have made outstanding contributions to their own development as a professional through their Professional Training Year.
Matthew Lamkin
Music & Sound Recording/Tonmeister – Post-Production Engineer at Pinewood Studios
"University prepared me for work, and my placement year prepared me for the rest of my career. I have learnt numerous professional skills in communication, finance, organisation, project management, and technical skills in fields that I hadn't realised I was interested in. Doing a placement year has expanded my career pathways and, without it, I would have fewer options available to me. I chose to apply for this award to encourage other students to take a placement year, as, personally, it has massively improved my career chances. It really is a life changer!"
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
The student could have made a significant contribution to raising the profile of their subject area whilst on placement, or could have made outstanding contributions to their own development as a professional through their Professional Training Year.
Amelia Dos Santos
Civil Engineering – Structural Engineer at Waterman Group
"Completing a Professional Training Year was an incredibly valuable experience that made a real difference on my technical understanding when I returned to university. I developed a range of practical skills that boosted my confidence and improved my performance. Mentoring other students helped me strengthen my leadership abilities, while working closely with multiple directors on presentations taught me a lot about effective communication and strategy. Organising social events was also a great way to enhance my project management skills and expand my network. The connections I made were incredibly valuable, both socially and professionally."
Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
The student could have made a significant contribution to raising the profile of their subject area whilst on placement, or could have made outstanding contributions to their own development as a professional through their Professional Training Year.
Ellie Chatfield
Psychology – SEN Teaching Assistant at St Joseph’s Specialist Trust
“All Surrey students should take a placement year as it's a unique way to learn about yourself and what drives you career-wise. It provides the opportunity to highlight professional strengths and also be supported in areas you find more difficult. My Professional Training Year has nurtured a deep passion within my field and allowed me to learn from more knowledgeable others whilst equally making an impact myself. A professional training year provides more than any lecture ever could - make the most of the opportunity."