A student placement at The Scadbury Centre has blossomed into paid employment for local learner Tyler, demonstrating the value of meaningful work experience and the power of partnership working.
Tyler joined The Scadbury Centre in April 2025 as part of a one-day-per-week placement through his course at Lonodn South East Colleges Bromley following an introduction by London Borough of Bromley between the two organisations. While already possessing a strong interest in horticulture and a solid foundation of knowledge, the placement was designed to provide something that cannot be learned entirely in a classroom – real-world, hands-on experience.
Over the course of the year, Tyler immersed himself in every aspect of practical garden maintenance. Working through the changing seasons, he gained experience in weeding, hedge trimming, tree pruning, composting, lawn care and general grounds maintenance, helping to keep the extensive grounds of The Scadbury Centre looking their best.
What quickly became apparent was Tyler’s ability to apply what he had learned. Following operational and safety training, he was trusted to use a range of tools and equipment and was often able to work independently or with minimal supervision. His excellent recall, strong organisational skills and growing confidence meant that once given a task, he could identify the resources required and get started with little prompting.
Just as importantly, Tyler approached every challenge with enthusiasm. He was never afraid to ask questions when faced with something unfamiliar and consistently demonstrated a positive attitude towards learning new skills. Staff were particularly impressed by his willingness to take on every task presented to him – including the less glamorous jobs that many people would rather avoid.
As Tyler completed his time at LSEC Bromley, he continued to attend The Scadbury Centre one day per week. However, the biggest success story is what came next. As a direct result of the skills, confidence and practical experience he developed during his placement, not only did Tyler secure a part-time role helping to tend and maintain the gardens of a local church within the borough but he has also been offered part-time employment working for The Scadbury Centre as Site Assistant.
His journey highlights what can be achieved when education providers and community organisations work together to create genuine pathways into employment.
The Scadbury Centre and London South East Colleges have developed a strong and ongoing partnership focused on providing meaningful opportunities for learners to gain practical experience, build confidence and develop skills that lead to greater independence and employment outcomes. Tyler’s success is a shining example of the impact that collaboration can have on an individual’s future.
Andrew Muckle, CEO of The Orpington and Bromley Gateway Club:
“Tyler has been an absolute pleasure to work with. From day one he demonstrated a genuine passion for horticulture, a fantastic work ethic and a willingness to learn. It has been wonderful to watch his confidence and independence grow throughout his placement. We are incredibly proud of him and for him that his own hard work has helped him secure paid employment and we look forward to continuing to support him as he develops his career.”
Deborah Baldacci, Senior Job Coach – Employment Preparation at London South East Colleges Bromley:
“From the outset, it was clear that the partnership with The Scadbury Centre would be an excellent fit for Tyler. Following early discussions with Andrew and a shared vision of supporting young people with SEND into meaningful employment, Tyler’s placement was carefully matched to his passion for horticulture.
Throughout his time at Scadbury, Tyler had the opportunity to develop his skills in a real working environment, using professional equipment and learning directly from experienced staff. It has been incredibly rewarding to see his confidence, independence and practical skill set grow over time.
He quickly became a valued member of the team, demonstrating commitment, enthusiasm and a strong work ethic in all tasks he undertook. Placements like Scadbury are invaluable in supporting students to develop not only vocational skills but also the independence needed for the workplace.
Tyler’s progression into paid employment is a fantastic achievement. After impressing during a successful trial, particularly with his lawn mowing skills, he secured a part-time role with a local landscaping company. He continues to go from strength to strength, and we are extremely proud of what he has achieved.”
“Tyler’s journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved when the right support, opportunity and partnership come together to enable young people with SEND to thrive in the workplace.”
Tyler said:
“When I first started my placement at The Scadbury Centre 2025, I felt really excited to begin and to experience something new. I was hoping to learn different methods of growing plants and was especially looking forward to using new tools.
During my placement, I took part in a wide range of tasks, including lawn care, watering plants, composting, building plant beds and fences, as well as planting and harvesting vegetables. I enjoyed being involved in so many different activities and learning through hands-on experience.
I didn’t find anything too difficult because there was always support available. I enjoy trying new things, and I knew that if I needed help, someone would be there to guide me and show me the correct way to do things.
I have learned lots of new skills, especially in lawn care and how to use tools safely and correctly. I have also improved my time management and learned how to travel independently to my placement, which has made a big difference to my confidence.
I now feel much more confident and able to start tasks independently. When I arrive, I can begin jobs such as lawn care or other tasks without needing support, which makes me feel proud.
My placement helped me get a paid job because I was able to show that I am a hard worker and develop strong lawn mowing skills. During my trial day with a landscaping company, this really stood out and helped me secure the role.
In my new job, I enjoy helping to keep the churchyard well-maintained. I am most proud of the work I did at Scadbury, especially making bird boxes and windmills for the site.
I would say to other students thinking about a placement at Scadbury that there is great support, everyone is friendly, and you will learn a lot. This experience has helped me become more independent, and now I am proud to have a paid job.”
First published on Bromley SEND on 6 October 2026, visit the website here