We are happy to announce that PATRICK IS NOW OFFICIALLY A PART OF #TeamPVL! Here at PVL, we have long recognised the importance of social value in driving community growth, and one of the company’s initiatives is partnering with Woodland Meed College, a local special educational needs school in Burgess Hill, West Sussex. Through this collaboration, we were able to offer a sponsored internship to Patrick, who has just completed and has accepted, making him a permanent part of PVL.
PVL's Internship for Inclusive Employment
PVL and Woodlands Meed have been working together for several years, and this internship is to support local employment by offering meaningful, structured workplace experiences to students who struggle to access the job market. Providing real job responsibilities in a supportive environment tailored to the individual’s capabilities and goals.
Patrick's Journey: Growth and Impact at PVL
In September 2024, Patrick joined us and we worked closely with his job coach, David to establish a clear and supportive schedule suited for him where he spent 3 days a week with us and 2 days at school. From day one Patrick has been an absolute pleasure to have on #TeamPVL. He has shown great enthusiasm for learning new skills in production it’s been incredibly rewarding to witness his growing confidence. Over time, he has truly become an ambassador for PVL, representing our core values with pride and positivity.
“The statistics are scary, the support for these young people without schools and colleges like Woodlands Meed is almost non-existent, so for us to do our little bit in just one student’s life has been so important. While the internship was originally set to run for a year and conclude in July, we’re thrilled to share that starting in August, Patrick will officially join PVL as a permanent member of the team. We were proud to offer him a role, and even prouder that he accepted.” – Natalie Cole – PVL Operations Manager.
Meet Patrick! Here is a special video showcasing his fantastic journey and remarkable growth here at PVL, with highlights from throughout the year. It’s truly inspiring!
Celebrating Patrick: A Internship for Success
Derry Richardson, Head of Service, Education and Skills at West Sussex Council, had this to say during her visiting Patrick here at PVL, “It wasn’t only this young man’s independence, passion, diligence, skill, and attention to detail that shined, but the exceptional environment he works in. A long-term investment and partnership between educator and employer.”
We are so happy to have Patrick as a permanent part of our team and to have witnessed his remarkable growth over the year. His journey is a powerful testament to the success that blooms when talent meets opportunity in a supportive environment. Our collaboration with Woodland Meed College means we break the stats of young people without work after school, offering meaningful pathways to employment. We couldn’t be prouder to have Patrick contribute to our future, and hope his story inspires more collaborations to build stronger, more inclusive communities. Welcome to PVL!
