Two local students have benefitted from hands-on experience during a week-long work placement at much-loved home lifestyle store, Bell of Northampton.

As part of its commitment to support those in the community, Year 10 students Scarlett and Harris were welcomed to the Kingsthorpe Road store where they embarked on a jam-packed schedule to gain insight into all areas of the business, from accounts, logistics, retail, installations and marketing.

During the placement, both students were tasked with completing a series of activities including working alongside the store’s bathroom and kitchen teams to design a bathroom and kitchen using computer aided design (CAD) software and brainstorming an innovative concept for a new department at Bell. To sign off on their experience, the students were asked to present their designs and ideas to the Bell team.

This latest cohort of work experience students follows similar previous initiatives that has seen pupils invited into the store to be part of a fully immersive experience that highlights the demands and everyday tasks of a successful business.

“Welcoming students into the store is always a rewarding experience for everyone involved,” said Lee Ferris, managing director at Bell. “Work experience offers young people a valuable insight into the workplace and helps them build confidence, develop practical skills and better understand the different roles that contribute to a successful business.

“As a local business, we’re proud to support young people in our community and give them the opportunity to explore what happens behind the scenes at Bell. Scarlett and Harris approached the week with enthusiasm, professionalism and plenty of great ideas, and it was fantastic to see them get so involved.

“I’d also like to thank our team for making them feel welcome and ensuring they had a varied, engaging and worthwhile experience throughout the week.”

Speaking of the placement at Bell, student Scarlett said: “During the week I’ve been learning all about how Bell works, including behind the scenes departments.

“I really enjoyed designing a kitchen and bathroom, using the different CAD programmes, and putting colours and materials together.”

Student Harris commented: “During the week at Bell I have learnt a lot about the different roles within the company and have really enjoyed meeting new people.”

For more information about Bell, visit www.abell.co.uk