Computing Students Enhance their Skills in Malta
Seven students from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) gained valuable international work experience in the computing sector this summer on a trip to Malta which was fully funded by the Turing Scheme.
The students, from the Pearson BTEC HND in Computing (Software and Games Development) and Level 3 National Extended Diploma in IT – IT Professional, attended work placements during the two-week visit with two organisations.
Two students were placed with Blevins Franks, a financial advice business based in Mriehel, where they gained experience in data analysis, cyber security and artificial intelligence /robotic.
And five students worked for HandsOn Systems, a technology company based in Mosta, and were tasked with testing and reconfiguring GPS devices for tracking vehicles.
The group, who stayed at Bella Vista Hotel, in St Paul’s Bay, got to experience many tourist attractions in their down-time including trips to Valetta, Mdina, Gozo Island, and Golden Sands Beach, as well as taking part in waterpark, archery and crossbow activities.
Finley Houston, (18), from Dromara, from the Level 3 National Extended Diploma in IT – IT Professional programme said: “I found the experience extremely valuable. I learnt a lot and the friendly staff made me feel welcome.
“Throughout the trip I developed skills in communication, improved my capability to work with others on a project, gained deeper knowledge of the usage and function of databases and acquired a better understanding of what an IT department does in a large company.
“It was also the first time I got to experience working in the computing industry and also my first trip outside of the UK.
“The group social activities, team building exercises, and visits to sights around Malta made for a memorable trip.
“Overall, I really enjoyed the experience and would really recommend it to anyone SERC student who gets the opportunity to apply for the Turing Scheme placement.”
The Turing Scheme provides funding for students to undertake a study or work placement across the world, contributing to the UK Government’s commitment to a Global Britain, by helping organisations such as SERC to enhance existing international links and forge new relationships. T
he delivery partner for the Turing Scheme is Capita working on behalf of the Department for Education.
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