Work Experience Feedback - Zack
Work Experience Coordinator's Feedback
Zack attended LVS for approximately five years, where he faced challenges due to his ASD, ADHD, and anxiety, which often impacted his focus and engagement. Zack was always a friendly individual with a great sense of humour.
In Autumn 2022, Zack began a work experience placement at Blenheim Palace on a trial basis, and over his time there, his growth was remarkable. Key areas of improvement included:
- Sustaining longer periods of concentration and becoming less easily distracted.
- Significant progress in social communication skills and interpreting social cues.
- Increased confidence in his abilities, leading to more active participation and initiative at Blenheim Palace.
Zack grew more confident, inquisitive, and respectful of others’ opinions. The staff at Blenheim Palace were thoroughly impressed by his progress, resulting in Zack attending the placement an extra day each week. This work experience had a profound impact on Zack’s social communication and interaction skills. He engaged more in conversations with adults and peers, showing respect and interest in others’ viewpoints. Zack’s enjoyment of his placement, coupled with his increased confidence, self-esteem, and maturity, was evident in his discussions about his time at Blenheim Palace.
In June 2024, Zack was offered a Customer Services Level 2 Apprenticeship at Blenheim Palace, a testament to all his hard work, dedication, and commitment in pursuit of a fulfilling future. This opportunity reflects the incredible progress he made during his time at Blenheim and his determination to succeed.
Employer's Perspective
Over the past two years, Zack has shown tremendous growth during his time in the Operations Department at Blenheim Palace. His role has involved customer service, groundskeeping, and other hands-on responsibilities, all of which have helped him build confidence, initiative, and problem-solving skills. Zack actively participates in team briefings, identifies tasks on his own, and handles challenges with a proactive attitude. His communication skills have flourished, allowing him to engage comfortably with both staff and the public.
Zack’s dedication to his work is clear—he follows instructions well, completes tasks independently, collaborates effectively with others, and has even taken on leadership roles, guiding teammates with clarity and enthusiasm. While he sometimes takes on challenging tasks solo, he’s learning to accept help when needed, especially for physically demanding jobs.
His journey has demonstrated impressive maturity, and Zack has emerged as a natural leader. His commitment to pursuing an apprenticeship reflects his ambition, and we’re excited to see him succeed as he transitions to this new role. It has been a pleasure to be part of his journey, and we look forward to continuing it with him in his new apprenticeship position.
Lorraine Wing (Key Worker, Blenheim Palace)