Rhys joined the I Can Therapy Centre to gain hands-on experience in a supportive, people focused environment. During his placement, he explored his motivations, developed key skills, and made a meaningful contribution to the team while building confidence and real world experience.
Background & Motivation
Rhys joined the Therapy Centre to gain the hands-on experience required for his course. He is currently in his first year of T-Level in Health, specialising in adult nursing. Keen to build his communication skills, he was particularly interested in working directly with people. His decision to undertake his placement at the Therapy Centre reflects his motivation to gain real-world experience and to develop a deep understanding of supporting individuals with a wide range of health conditions.
Placement Goals
Rhys began his placement with clear goals in mind. He was keen to:
● Gain experience interacting with people of different ages and needs
● Be actively involved in supporting individuals on their journeys
● Develop an understanding of a real workplace environment
These objectives reflected both his academic interests and his ambition to build confidence in a practical setting.
Initial Experience
Starting a new role can be challenging, but Rhys approached the opportunity with a positive mindset. While naturally a little nervous, he quickly began to settle in and engage with the team and service users. His early experiences allowed him to observe how I Can Move More operates while gradually building confidence in his own abilities.
Skills Development
Throughout the placement, Rhys identified several key areas for personal development, including:
● Communication and people skills
● Teamwork and collaboration
● Confidence and motivation in a professional setting
These focus areas became central to his learning experience and helped shape his progression during the placement.
Experience & Reflection
Rhys particularly enjoyed the hands-on nature of the placement, with opportunities to interact directly with customers playing a key role in his development. He valued the personal experience gained through meaningful interactions, as well as his involvement in social clubs, which helped him build stronger connections and develop a deeper understanding of I Can Move More and the programmes available. One of the most surprising aspects of the placement for Rhys was seeing first-hand how impactful the services are. Hearing personal stories and witnessing how the support provided has helped individuals both physically and socially gave him a greater appreciation of the organisation’s work and its importance within the community.
Challenges & Growth
Like many in a new environment, Rhys faced challenges – particularly in developing his communication skills. He quickly recognised the need to adapt his approach to suit different individuals, understanding that everyone has unique needs and preferences. Through patience, observation, and experience, Rhys learned how to communicate more effectively and adapt to a variety of situations. This growth not only improved his confidence but also strengthened his ability to support others in a meaningful and inclusive way.
Customer Feedback & Impact
Feedback from customers highlights the positive contribution Rhys made during his placement. Many enjoyed having him involved in sessions, commenting on his friendly, approachable nature and the energy he brought to the centre. One customer reflected that Rhys was “always smiling and helpful,” helping to create a welcoming and supportive environment. Comments like these demonstrate his ability to build strong relationships and put others at ease.
Customers also recognised the value of providing placement opportunities, noting the benefits for both the individuals and the wider community. Through his involvement, Rhys supported the delivery of sessions while gaining valuable practical experience, demonstrating the importance of creating opportunities for young people to develop their skills and confidence.
Overall, Rhys’s placement has been a highly rewarding and valuable experience for both him and the organisation. He leaves with increased confidence, practical hands-on experience, and a clearer sense of his future career goals, making his placement an important milestone in his personal and professional development.
Everyone at Valley Leisure Ltd would like to thank Rhys for choosing to undertake his placement with us. We wish him all the very best with his studies and every success as he continues his journey towards a career in health and social care.