All aboard! Student thrives on East Lancashire Railway placement

An industry placement with East Lancashire Railway has allowed a Bury College Engineering student to expand his passion for working with trains.

Matthew Wheeler, formerly of Tottington High School, was given the opportunity to expand on the skills he’s developed in college and has fully taken advantage. Matthew said: “The placement has made me more knowledgeable about Engineering and improved my confidence and communication skills.”

Bury College and East Lancashire Railway have a longstanding relationship allowing students to take on various opportunities across their organisation.

Andrew Hardman, Acting Head -Traction and Rolling Stock Engineering and Administration Management at East Lancashire Railway, said: “We have been offering placements to Bury College students for the last four years. It has given people like Matthew a great experience and a way of enhancing their skills. They are always keen to learn, and their work ethic is always fantastic.

"From a wider business perspective, it also gives our staff and volunteers an opportunity to get involved in mentoring the students, which can give their own careers a boost.”

Bury College is working with forward-thinking employers who are providing industry placements for our learners. We want to encourage as many employers as possible to join the College and help offer students an opportunity that enhances their education. If you have an interest in supporting the College by providing an industry placement, please pledge your support by completing our employer pledge form. Click here for more information.