Supported Learning students Mohammed Cali and Keelam O’Connor do a workout in the gym ahead of their work placements at Tottenham Green Pools & Fitness.
Two students with learning disabilities will have the chance to pursue their career goals on work placement at a leisure centre in north London.
Mohammed Cali, 22, and Keelam O’Connor, 18, will be undertaking a one day a week placement at Tottenham Green Pools & Fitness from May to June.
The pair, who are both Supported Learning students at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London 9CONEL), were invited to an induction at the centre on Philip Lane on 15 March.
They met staff and were given a tour of the sports centre run by Fusion Lifestyle, including the gym, swimming pools, sports hall, squash courts and aerobic studios.
While on placement they get to work with gym instructors and lifeguards, test the temperature of the pool, set up gymnastics equipment, learn about health and safety and carry out reception and administrative duties.
Mohamed said: “I like to go to the gym and exercise and it was interesting being able to learn more about different sports. If it goes well it could be something I can do as a job in the future.”
Keelam added: “I enjoy sport, football mostly, and working at a sports centre is something I would like to do. I like all the activities that go on and I think it would be a fun place to work.”
CONEL offers a wide range of courses designed to give students with additional needs work and life skills and more independence, including English and maths.
Rianne Miller, Customer Relations Manager of Tottenham Green Pools & Fitness, said: “We’ve worked with CONEL in the past and excited to be continuing that brilliant relationship by welcoming these students to join us on work experience.
“We hope it will give them an insight into the sport and leisure industry and be a huge opportunity for them to learn skills in a real working environment, which is great for the community and us.”