University of Exeter wins top national award

Exeter University also had the highest number of students taking part in the Shell Step programme across the UK.

Jane Gill, Employer Liaison Officer at the University commented ‘It was great for the team to be presented with this award. We all worked extremely hard over the course of the year both contacting businesses across the region and attracting students to the scheme. We’re delighted it came together so successfully.’

The aim of the Shell Step programme is to bring businesses and students together for a summer placement, lasting between eight and thirteen weeks, with the focus on solving a business challenge, unique to each company.

Shell STEP students have helped thousands of companies, undertaking a variety of projects which have included setting up IT systems, writing marketing plans, developing web-sites and e-commerce and designing corporate literature.

Megan Crump, currently studying at University College Falmouth was placed at Spectrum, a charity based in Penryn, Cornwall. After winning through to the South West and Southern Finals, Megan was rewarded for her efforts with a place in the National Shell Step Finals. Spectrum provides residential care, day services and education for people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), Asperger’s Syndrome, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other behaviourally linked disorders. It also funds research activities related to ASDs and is campaigning for improved approaches to supporting people with these conditions.

Megan was tasked with evaluating the organisation’s branding and playing a key role in making sure the transition into the new brand ran as smoothly as possible. Megan also instigated a fund raising campaign which will not only raise £1.5million pounds to build a new adult education centre but will also make a significant difference to the lives of the people who will access its resources. Megan will now be working for Spectrum part time during her final year and full time after graduation.

"The Shell Step placement has been an invaluable opportunity that has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter into the work place successfully. I have benefited immensely from my placement with Spectrum which has helped me develop vital new skills and ways of thinking that will considerably influence my life after university and future career path" said Megan.

Sarah Miller, Compliance Manager for Spectrum explained, “Megan came in and carried out an entire review of all our external communications, bringing with her some dynamic, fresh ideas. Her creative writing and communication skills proved to be extremely valuable and she will leave us having implemented an entirely new corporate identity which will really move the charity forward.”