Central Foundaton Girls' School

Central Foundation Girls' School Sixth Form

From HQ Office to Aisle: Our week with Tesco 

From the 8th to the 12th of July 2024, we, a group of four sixth-form students — Fariha Ahmed (13DNL), Hannah Begum (12SQN), Musammed Samia Ahmed (12LHR), and Anisa Begum (12HTA) — had the fantastic opportunity to take part in a pilot work experience programme at Tesco. This five-day experience was split between three days at Tesco's head office in Welwyn Garden City and two days in one of their superstores in East London. 

At the head office, we had the chance to immerse ourselves in the food manufacturing department, where we gained hands-on experience creating dishes using a range of ingredients such as rice, pasta, vegetables, and meat. It was challenging but exciting to think on our feet and come up with creative combinations. We also spent time in the merchandising department, working closely with Tesco staff and collaborating on decisions about the best clothing range for children aged 5 to 10 for the upcoming season. It was an eye-opening experience to see how much thought and teamwork goes into the products we see on the shelves every day.

 

I really enjoyed working with Tesco as it taught me a lot about having good independent skills. I was afraid to work with people older than me, as I haven't had that opportunity until now. However, by the end of the week, I felt more comfortable communicating with others I am not familiar with. Hannah, Yr 12

 

 

Our time at the superstore in East London gave us a completely different perspective. We shadowed the store manager, observed daily operations, and even wore the Tesco uniform. It was a real test of our adaptability when customers approached us for help finding items! At the end of our placement, Tesco surprised us with a generous bag of goodies filled with make-up, creams, powders, and gels, along with a £25 gift card for lunch over the five days — a pleasant and unexpected bonus!

Overall, our week was filled with new learning experiences, exciting challenges, and wonderful memories.

 

Working with Tesco allowed me to gain an insight into what the retail industry is like. I enjoyed my time and had fun exploring the different departments. I would recommend this experience because it builds your confidence up and you get good freebies too! Musammed, 12LHR

 

I've really enjoyed working with Tesco. It allowed me to gain confidence in myself and put myself out there, and I've had a really fun time with Alice and Kim. They are the sweetest, and you gain really good work experience.  Anisa, 12HTA