Work-ex student Ben proves a perfect fit

A Derby College sports student has landed a job with a fitness centre after impressing managers during a work experience placement.

Ben Cudworth, 17, is on the Level three Fitness Instructor study programme at Broomfield Hall, which has a strong focus on work experience.

He has now secured a part-time job at Ripley Leisure Centre following his placement.

The former Belper School pupil secured a 14-week placement through Derby College’s employer academy programme with Places Leisure, which runs leisure centres in Ripley, Alfreton and Heanor on behalf of Amber Valley Borough Council.

Senior fitness instructor Oliver Simpson said: “Placement students work alongside our fitness team to gain the skills, knowledge and experience needed to work in the fitness industry.

“Although we offer a lot of work experience placements, we have never had anyone who has then been offered casual hours while still at college, which just shows Ben’s calibre.”

Ben said: “Doing the college course has opened the door to getting my dream job and I hope it will lead to a permanent position when I finish college this summer so that I can work here and gain further qualifications.”