A student from Plantsbrook School in Sutton Coldfield impressed during his week-long work experience placement at Cookes Furniture – which was set up as part of a Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce initiative.

The Erdington-based home furniture business welcomed Year 12 student Charlie England as part of the Chamber’s business and education campaign which aims to increase engagement between local businesses and educational establishments.

Charlie, who is studying A-Level Business, spent time learning about the seven-decade old company with sales manager David Padfield and managing director James Pike at their extensive showroom on Goosemoor Lane.

Charlie said: “It was exciting getting to try the different aspects of working at Cookes and seeing how everything works. Everyone was so friendly and made me feel welcome as soon as I arrived.”

James Pike said: “Charlie was a great addition to the team and a credit to his family and the school. He threw himself into a variety of tasks with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and once he turns 18 we very much hope to welcome him back for further work within the business.”

Sarah Dullea, careers advisor at Plantsbrook School, said: “Through our membership with the Chamber, James offered a work experience placement for one of our students. 

“Charlie was interested in exploring all areas of a business and James and his team put together an itinerary that let Charlie experience all the different departments within Cookes.

“After the recent struggles through Covid, it’s important that students get a real-life taste of experience within the workplace and see what real like work skills are required to succeed once they leave school. 

"We are very grateful that a local business took the time to show Charlie all aspects of a company and it further cements the important partnership between schools and employers.”

As part of the aforementioned Business and Education campaign, set up by president, Phil Arkinstall and the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber executive committee, members were sent a questionnaire where they were able to share with schools how they are able to help young people within their businesses.

Phil said: “This successful partnership, along with several other positive engagements between the business and education communities following our project in the Spring shows how important it is for us all to work closely with the next generation of our workforce and we look forward to hearing more beneficial links in the future.”

Any business keen to offer help to local schools are encouraged to get in touch with Chris Brewerton, divisional director of Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce, on c.brewerton@birmingham-chamber.com where they can be signposted to contacts within local schools.

Pictured: Charlie England (centre) with David Padfield (left) and James Pike (right)