Staffordshire work experience scheme sees jobseeker find success with local firm

Pic: Callum Edwards

A Staffordshire Council work experience scheme has helped a recent graduate find work in a Wolverhampton testing firm.

Callum Edwards, 22, is the latest person to benefit from the Open-Door programme after securing a full-time laboratory technician job with Professional Test Solutions Ltd.

After graduating from the University of Salford during the pandemic, Callum struggled to find jobs in his chosen field of physics.

But after spending 18 months in grocery retail, he decided to try and find a job that made better use of his qualification.

Callum, from Stafford, said: "I had been searching for jobs related to engineering and physics since I finished my degree in May 2020.

"But due to the pandemic, many companies either weren't hiring, or there was limited availability for related jobs.

"I contacted the Open Door team, and after explaining my position, the team put me in touch with Professional Test Solutions."

After discussing his goals with the team, Callum started a twelve-week work experience placement with PTS Ltd and impressed his bosses so much that they offered him a full-time job after four weeks.

Callum said: "I began learning all of the processes that would be key if I were to continue as a full-time employee.

"Although it was a new challenge from what I had been doing previously, I was able to use some of the knowledge from my studies to help me through.

"I would absolutely recommend the Open Door programme to others in the same boat as me."

Callum said it was easy for him to get started and urged others to contact the team.

Alex Smith, Managing Director at PTS, said: "We chose Open Door as they demonstrated great engagement, a willingness to understand our business needs and had in-depth knowledge of their candidates.

"I'd highly recommend the scheme."

Philip White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said: "We're very proud of our Open Door programme.

"It's an important part of our work to grow our local economy and create good quality jobs for people.

"If we don't have a suitable work placement within the council, we will go out to local employers to find one.

"It's great that Callum found a placement so quickly and a job for that matter, and we wish him all the best for the future."

The Open Door programme started in 2009 and has helped over 1,100 people.

Anyone over 18 can apply to the programme, which focuses on helping those who face difficulties and barriers in finding work.

It could include people with disabilities, mental health issues, ex-offenders, children leaving care, school leavers and graduates.

For more information on the Open Door Staffordshire scheme, ring 01785 854486 or email.

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