Introducing a Youth Friendly Business!
YEUK spoke to Joseph Kennedy, 21 at Plastic Expert, about his experience so far from education to employment and also what makes Plastic Expert Kevin a Youth Friendly employer.
Plastic Expert CEO, Kevin is keen to improve the landscape for young people. He hopes to inspire other businesses to implement his employment techniques. Kevin employs a young intern and trains them for an advanced role one-on-one, growing their confidence and knowledge with his guidance. So far he has had great success with this method.
Here’s what Joseph shared with YEUK!
Educational background:
I chose a varied selection of AS levels at the start of college: English Literature & Language, Accounting, Maths and Economics. I’d done well at both English and Maths at GCSE, but I couldn’t keep up with the numbers game and I fell behind. I dropped Maths and failed Economics, and I was asked not to continue it into A level. I continued onto a Foundation degree in Broadcast Journalism, and from there I progressed onto a Creative Writing and Journalism Degree.
Did you get the grades you expected?
Nowhere near. I needed 240 UCAS points for my chosen course at University, and I ended up with just 140. I had to take time out of college through injury, and I didn’t utilise this time to study. I was quite disappointed, but determined to continue my education.
Did you receive any support pre exams at either A level or as an undergrad on what to do if you didn’t get the grades you expected?
Fortunately I had a great personal tutor at college. She advised me that if I felt I wouldn’t reach my UCAS points target, I should consider a top-up year, retake some exams or apply for a foundation course. I took the foundation route.
What would you suggest young people do if they don’t get those grades?
Take a deep breath, it’s not the end of the world. You’re still young, and education is still vastly more accessible to you now than later in life. Is it worth retaking some exams? Have you considered an apprenticeship? Consider what your private interests are, and see what jobs are in that industry. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice, there are people out there whose job it is to help guide you!
What is your position at Plastic Expert and how did you find out about the position?
I am the PR & Marketing Executive (Intern), which involves creating content, promoting the brand through social media, networking and keeping an eye on the plastic recycling world. I found the job on Gumtree ads, and it seemed too good to be true, my gut instinct told me to go for it!
What is the ethos of Plastic Expert?
The ethos of Plastic Expert is to divert recyclable waste from landfill. We are really passionate about the environment and improving recycling rates. We want to see more materials reaching the people and places that can make them into new things!
