Thomas Fattorini

Since leaving full-time education, I have worked for Ryedale Garden Services on my days off from Sainsbury’s. This experience has given me the opportunity to work in challenging conditions, such as cold and wet weather, while also developing practical skills in building and construction. I have learned how to take pride in my work and gained hands-on experience in tasks such as constructing fences, patios, and paths.

I also really enjoy the customer interactions, especially talking to those who share a passion for their gardens. Engaging with customers has allowed me to further develop my communication skills while providing a service that enhances their outdoor spaces.

Joining Sainsbury’s at 17 has been instrumental in developing my workplace skills and experience. Since starting, I have enjoyed every aspect of the job and have gained invaluable skills, particularly in teamwork, communication, and handling high-pressure situations—most notably during the busy Christmas period. I am a well-respected member of the team due to my strong work ethic and ability to take on important responsibilities while also handling challenging situations. I have successfully managed tasks such as handling cash, code checking, and stock counting, along with many other responsibilities, all of which require attention to detail and accountability. Overall, my time at Sainsbury’s has been invaluable, providing me with essential skills that I can apply to any professional environment.

At the age of 16, I got my first part-time job as a shop assistant at Thomas the Baker. This experience was important as it gave me my first real insight into the working world. The fast-paced environment required me to develop the ability to work under pressure while also engaging with customers to build strong relationships, which definitely helped build my confidence when communicating with customers.