At DRK Lighting, we are committed to sustainable practices. We believe that one of the most meaningful investments in a sustainable future is investing in the next generation of young people and our community. For more than three years, we’ve been proud to work alongside Merton College, part of South Thames Colleges Group, providing meaningful work experience opportunities for electrical and business students looking to take their first steps into the industry.
Over that time, we’ve welcomed 16 students each year, giving them the opportunity to gain real-world experience, develop valuable workplace skills and build confidence in a professional environment. What began as a work experience programme has become a long-standing partnership.
In recognition of this commitment, DRK Lighting was honoured to receive the South Thames College New Employer Engagement Award in the very first year of the partnership. It was a happy moment for our team and reinforced the importance of creating genuine opportunities for young people to succeed.
Turning Opportunity into Employment
Today, we’re delighted to celebrate another exciting milestone in our partnership with Merton College.
We’re thrilled to officially welcome Alisha, Shay, and Anas as permanent members of the DRK Lighting team after each of them was introduced to us through the college. Shay and Anas have been part of the Electrical work experience programme, and Alisha, a Business student, was recommended for one of our office roles.
Their journeys perfectly demonstrate what can happen when education and industry work together to create career pathways.
Jeanette Bryant, Employability Co-ordinator at Merton College, commented:
“This is a fantastic example of how meaningful work experience can lead to successful career pathways. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to DRK Lighting for their continued support of Merton College. This academic year alone, three of our students have secured employment with the company.”
We’re incredibly proud to have played a part in helping these talented young people launch their careers.
Alisha, Trainee Estimator | Anas, Trainee Technician | Shay, Trainee Technician
Alisha’s Story
Alisha initially joined DRK Lighting while studying at Merton College, after we recognised an opportunity for business students to gain valuable office-based experience. Her enthusiasm, dedication and willingness to learn quickly made an impression, and we’re delighted that she is now a permanent member of our team as a Trainee Estimator.
Speaking about her experience here, Alisha said:
“I love my job. I feel motivated and empowered by the DRK team to do well. My mentor Isabel Gower has been extremely supportive and has tutored me every step of the way to succeed in the tasks I now do daily. The office always has a positive vibe that makes me feel included. I know I can progress at DRK Lighting. I want to thank Jeanette at Merton College for giving me this opportunity and also the team at DRK for their kindness and support.”
Anas’ Story
Anas also joined us through the work experience programme and has embraced every opportunity to learn and develop his skills, also as a Trainee Technician.
He commented:
“I feel I could not have started out on my career in a better place than DRK Lighting. It is a professional environment, but it is also a friendly place. Everyone here seems to have my best interest at heart, and I feel valued and appreciated. I have a strong work ethic and a curiosity to learn more. I have benefited from the collaborative relationship between Merton College and DRK.”
Shay’s Story
After completing work experience with DRK Lighting, Shay impressed our workshop team with his positive attitude and commitment to learning. He has since joined us as an employee and is developing new skills every day as a Trainee Technician.
Shay said:
“Since leaving Merton College and having work experience with DRK – and then being offered a contract, I have found the whole experience to be exciting and educational.
DRK is a great place to work, and I have learnt so much in such a short time. I am at the start of a career path I feel very positive about. I am grateful to all those that have helped me to this point, including Jeanette at Merton College and the workshop team at DRK Lighting.”
A Partnership That Makes a Difference
Earlier this year, Merton College highlighted our partnership across its social media channels, recognising the positive impact these placements have had on students and celebrating the opportunities available through collaboration with local employers.
We’re incredibly grateful to the team at Merton College, especially Jeanette Bryant, for their continued support and dedication to helping students transition from education into employment. Together, we’ve created opportunities that go beyond work experience, giving young people the chance to build fulfilling careers.
Looking Ahead
Congratulations once again to Alisha, Shay and Anas. We’re delighted to have you as part of the DRK Lighting family and look forward to supporting your careers for many years to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about DRK Lighting, our team, or our commitment to sustainable practices, we’d love to hear from you.
