Ryley Rafferty

I have volunteered to help family and friends with a range of practical jobs to build my experience and skills. These included: Outdoor work such as mowing lawns, trimming hedges, strimming borders, laying turf, removing decking, and clearing excess soil.
Indoor work including removing wallpaper and sanding walls to prepare them for decorating.
Skills developed:

• Planned and organised tasks adapting my approach depending on materials, surfaces and the weather
• Paid close attention to detail to achieve high-quality results
• Worked to agreed timescales and completed tasks within expected timeframe to a high standard.
• Kept work areas clean and safe, using and storing tools responsibly.
• Learned practical skills through hands-on experience and reflected on ways to improve for future projects.

Helping my working parents with childcare for my younger siblings, including picking them up from school, making snacks, helping with homework, and taking them to activities.

• Took responsibility for looking after my younger siblings and being someone they could rely on.
• Managed my time well to make sure they got to school, clubs, and other activities on time.
• Handled disagreements and unexpected situations calmly and maturely.
• Followed basic safety practices and made sure my siblings were properly supervised

Assisted family friend with their removals business, helping with house and office moves.

• Helped load and unload customer belongings safely and efficiently.
• Communicated politely with customers and responded to questions in a helpful manner.
• Followed health and safety procedures, including using safe manual handling techniques when lifting heavy items.
• Helped keep vehicles clean and organised through regular washing and interior cleaning.
• Cleared away packaging, debris, and empty boxes to leave properties tidy after moves.
• Developed teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while working in different environments.

Completed work experience, helping with design, production, and installation of signs for local businesses.

• Helped print, cut, and prepare graphics for range of sign displays.
• Supported experienced fitters during sign installations and gained hands-on industry experience.
• Kept work areas clean and organised by disposing of waste materials correctly after each project.
• Developed practical skills, teamwork, and attention to detail while working in fast-paced environment.

Reason for leaving:
The work experience ended when the business experienced financial difficulties, and as a result, a permanent position was no longer available.