Aviva supports next generation of tech stars with new technology work placement

Authored by Aviva

Aviva is supporting the next generation of tech stars with a new Technology Work Placement for year 10 and year 11 students, based at its Bristol, Norwich and York sites.

During the first week of July, the week-long placement allowed students to fully immerse themselves in working life at Aviva, where they explored various roles across the technology department and learnt valuable transferable skills in communication, teamwork, project work and delivering tasks against a deadline. 

To complement the placement, students also participated in various workshops on CV writing, interview preparation and protecting their health and well-being, with all workshops designed to equip students with key skills to support their future careers. 

Fraser, a student on the Aviva placement in Norwich, said: "The week was amazing. We had talks from people from all over the company and have gained experience working with different apps. The people were amazing - our leaders for the work experience, other students on the work experience and Aviva employees, who always smiled at you when you walked by." 

While Evie, a student on the Aviva placement in York, said: “I learnt so many different skills while having a lot of fun. I liked how it felt like a real work environment and I would definitely do it again.”

For the Aviva employees who took on the role of site leads, the placement week provided the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with students from their local communities, while also benefiting themselves from the dynamism, energy and fresh perspectives that young people bring to a company.

James Holland, a power platform SME at Aviva and Norwich site lead, said: “My role as Norwich site lead was really rewarding. Across the week, I saw the students grow in confidence and they came together to form closely knit group who looked out for each other. 

“As a new father myself, I feel a responsibility to make sure our future generations are given the tools to succeed and providing a carefully planned and structured work experience is a far cry from the days of students sitting at someone's desk watching them work. Hopefully I have opened their eyes to some career paths they never thought possible.”

Lucie Grainger, Head of IT Care at Aviva, added: "In 2023 it's more important than ever that we empower young people in our local communities to take control of their futures and equip them with fundamental career skills as they prepare for life beyond school. At Aviva, we take pride in providing opportunities to the next generation as well as strengthening our relationships with the communities we work in. 

"The technology work placement was not just for those with a background in technology and aimed to show young people that careers in tech, and at Aviva, are for everyone. Across the week, we've seen some brilliant project work and had heart-warming feedback from students undertaking the placement that they now feel optimistic about their future, both in the workplace and beyond."