Carlisle College has proudly marked an inspiring and impactful week as students Shaun and Elizabeth completed their Dream Placement 2026 programme. Over five days, the pair immersed themselves in leadership activities, real-world operations, and hands-on projects that offered a unique insight into life at the College.
Throughout the week, Shaun and Elizabeth explored key areas across the organisation, collaborated with staff from multiple departments, and contributed to meaningful work that enriches the student experience. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and curiosity shone through every step of the way.
A Week of Highlights
Day 1 – Welcoming the Dream Placement Students
Shaun and Elizabeth began their placement with a warm welcome from the Leadership and Finance teams. This introduction set the tone for a dynamic and insightful week ahead, offering them a first look at how the College operates at a strategic level.
Day 2 – Immersed in College Operations
The students quickly moved into the heart of College life, joining Curriculum Manager meetings alongside our Assistant Principal and taking part in Finance activities with departmental leads. They also began exploring MOS exams with the Student Experience Team, gaining valuable skills to support their future career journeys.
Day 3 – Behind the Scenes of Marketing and Media
Elizabeth spent the day with the Marketing Team during an exciting filming session with ITV in the Motor Vehicle Workshop. She learned about content creation, interviewing, and storytelling in Further Education while observing filming that highlighted how seized vehicles from Cumbria Police are used for real-world student learning.
Day 4 – Strategic Thinking and Growth Mindset
Elizabeth joined senior leaders in an operations meeting covering IT systems, GCSE planning, and recruitment projections for 2026/27. Both students also met Daniel Dutton from the University of Cumbria, who shared valuable insights into developing a growth mindset and aspiring ambitiously for the future.
Day 5 – A Celebration of Achievement
To round off a successful week, Shaun and Elizabeth were presented with certificates and a £25 Uber Eats voucher in recognition of their outstanding engagement, commitment, and professionalism.
Celebrating Future Leaders
A huge well done to Shaun and Elizabeth — both have been exceptional throughout their placement. The College is grateful for the fresh perspectives they offered and the opportunity to understand more about the experiences of our learners.
We also extend our thanks to the Centre for Leadership Performance for facilitating this inspiring programme. We look forward to seeing where Shaun and Elizabeth’s leadership journeys take them next.
Carlisle College is proud to support programmes that empower young people and help shape tomorrow’s leaders.