By Bothwell Jones 14-04-2025
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting hundreds of vocational students as a teacher and business educator. Through my work in the further education sector , I’ve seen first-hand the incredible drive, creativity, and potential that vocational students bring to the table.
But despite their capabilities, I kept seeing the same frustrating barrier: a lack of real, meaningful work opportunities that aligned with what they were learning in the classroom.
Time and again, I watched learners complete assignments on customer service, digital marketing, or project planning — only to struggle when trying to access relevant industry experience. This disconnect between education and employment wasn’t just limiting their growth; it was also holding back the businesses that could benefit most from their energy and ideas.
Why I Created Valueplacement
Having studied Business Management and completed a PGCE in Post-Compulsory Education at Oxford Brookes University, I’ve always believed that education should lead to practical, real-world opportunities.
But what truly shaped this vision was my own experience as an entrepreneur.
Running my events and entertainment business has shown me the pressures that small business owners face daily. Time is limited, budgets are tight, and resources are stretched. Yet despite all this, small businesses need help. They need fresh talent, digital skills, and people who are ready to learn and contribute.
I realised there was a powerful solution sitting right in front of us: students.
Vocational learners are often studying exactly what start-ups need — from business and marketing to IT and customer experience. They’re capable, driven, and eager to apply their knowledge. All they need is a platform that connects them with the right opportunities.
That’s exactly what Valueplacement is here to do.
The Mission
Valueplacement was created to make it easier for students to gain access to real-world work placements — and for employers to tap into emerging talent without the red tape.
Whether you’re a café owner looking for help with your socials, a local estate agent in need of admin support, or a digital start-up wanting a fresh pair of eyes — Valueplacement gives you access to students who are ready to grow with you.
For students, this is a chance to build confidence, develop skills, and strengthen CVs before even finishing their qualifications. For businesses, it’s about building your brand with people who are enthusiastic, adaptable, and brimming with potential.
The Sectors We Are Supporting
At launch, Valueplacement will focus on connecting students and employers in some of the UK’s most in-demand and high-growth sectors. These include:
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💼 Business & Administration
Roles in customer service, HR, finance, and general admin. -
🧑💻 Digital, IT & Cybersecurity
Opportunities in web development, digital marketing, and IT support. -
🏥 Health & Social Care
Placements in care settings, community services, and medical admin. -
🛠️ Engineering & Manufacturing
Roles in design, production, and hands-on technical work. -
🧱 Construction & the Built Environment
Placements with firms offering design, surveying, planning, or trades. -
👩🏫 Education & Childcare
Opportunities in nurseries, schools, and early years support. -
🎨 Creative, Media & Design
Roles in photography, content creation, video editing, and graphic design. -
📊 Legal, Finance & Professional Services
Placements in law firms, accountancy, or office support roles
Looking Ahead
Our platform launches in August 2025, and I couldn’t be more excited about the impact it’s going to make.
If you’re a student seeking meaningful experience — or a business owner ready to offer someone a chance — join us. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to grow.
Let’s place real value in every placement.