Published on 15th September 2015

Gottingen coat of arms

Students from Göttingen in Germany are experiencing working life in Cheltenham, as they embark on a 6 week work placement.

Eight students, from the borough’s twin town are taking on a range of roles as part of their apprenticeships in public administration.

Until 16 October, the students - aged between 20 and 30 - are staying with local host families whilst they gain valuable work experience to support their studies.  The placements are in a range of public and private sector organisations including Cheltenham Borough Council, local schools, charities and businesses.

To introduce the students to democracy in Cheltenham, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles, Cllr Rowena Hay is preparing a talk for the students.

Cllr Hay said: ‘’I will be talking with the students about democracy in the council, how decisions are made and partnership working.  I will also invite questions at the end of the session. I hope that by offering this insight, they will be able to compare it with their own democratic system.  

‘’We are delighted that the students have come to Cheltenham to gain their work experience and I hope that when they return to Göttingen, they will go with new experiences, knowledge and skills which assist them in their studies and future careers.’’

The students have also been invited to attend a cabinet meeting so that they can experience democracy in action.

The trip has been co-ordinated by Cheltenham Twinning Association in partnership with Delingua Training.

Carol Stephens of Delingua Training and of the Twinning Association Committee said:  ‘’This is a valuable part of the students’ 3 year training programme and builds positive links between Cheltenham and Göttingen.’’

Sonja Gastorf, from Göttingen County Council is visiting this week to see how the students are getting on. She added:  ‘’The students are delighted to be in Cheltenham and are really enjoying their time here.  We are looking forward to future placements.’’

 

For press enquiries contact: Katie Sandey, communications team leader, telephone 01242 775050, email [email protected]

 

Notes

The Twinning Association also supports students who wish to travel to Göttingen for work placements.  For more details, call 01242 264311 or email [email protected]