Q&A with Rennay who shares the highlights and takeaways from her placement year.
Why did you decide to take a placement year?
I decided to take a placement year to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills that I couldn’t fully learn in the classroom. I wanted to challenge myself, grow professionally, and get a better understanding of what working in the real world would be like.
Where did you do your placement year and what did you do there?
I worked at King’s School Rochester as a sports teaching assistant. My role involved teaching a variety of sports, including swimming, netball, cricket and athletics, to children aged 3 to 18. I focused on making sports enjoyable and encouraging kids to stay active and confident in their abilities.
Did you receive any support during your placement?
Yes, I received a lot of support from the teachers and staff. They provided professional development opportunities that helped me build my confidence, especially since I initially struggled with imposter syndrome. My supervisor, Lucy Hale, was particularly helpful, always offering guidance and encouragement whenever I needed it.
How did your placement year help with your final year?
My placement year taught me valuable skills that made my final year much easier to navigate. I learned that it’s okay to ask for help and that you don’t need to be an expert to succeed; you learn as you go. It also showed me how to handle challenges and turn them into growth opportunities. Overall, the experience gave me a clearer perspective on my career path and allowed me to have the confidence to try other career paths as well as made me more resilient, organised, and confident in pursuing my goals.
I’d highly recommend taking a placement year as it provides a real insight into life after education and helps you develop both personally and professionally.