TOM DALE
My name is Tom Dale, and I am currently 15 years old, living in Bridge Hewick, North Yorkshire. I am a student at Ripon Grammar School (RGS), where I have developed both academically and personally through a variety of opportunities and experiences.
Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career in motorsport and mechanical engineering. I am particularly interested in becoming an engineer because I love working on and designing cars. My time at RGS has helped me build a strong foundation for becoming an engineer especially through my DT lessons, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
As part of my development, I completed my work experience at fifteen eleven design/ Mellors Elliot motorsport. During this time, I was able to gain a real insight into the working world and understand what it takes to succeed in a professional motorsport place. One of the most important things I learnt was how to build professional level cars that are 1 of 1 and shipped all around the world. This work experience showed me how important it is to be adaptable, confident, and willing to learn as well as constantly being in a professional mindset.
The aspect I enjoyed most about my placement was actually getting to help finish building the Porsches we were working on, as it allowed me to experience the professional motorsport and car building world hands on for the first time. It was a rewarding experience that gave me a clearer idea of what a future career might involve in the world of motorsport.
However, the experience also came with challenges. My greatest challenge was having to work with very tough and expensive materials like carbon fibre. Overcoming this taught me a lot of patience and control and helped me grow in confidence and resilience.
Outside of my academic work, I am also involved in a range of extracurricular activities, including rugby at Ripon rugby club, and getting involved with young farmers and Ripon motorsport club. These activities have helped me develop important skills such as teamwork, leadership, and commitment, as well as allowing me to pursue my interests beyond the classroom.
Overall, my experiences so far have helped shape my ambitions and prepare me for the future. I am looking forward to continuing my journey, building on what I have learnt, and working towards getting a job in the world of motorsport.
ALFIE MILLAR
My name is Alfie and I am 15 years old. I live in Ripon.
After RGS, I am hoping to go on to further education and eventually find a career that I enjoy.
For my work experience, I went to Kilnsey Fish Farm, and it was a great experience. I really enjoyed my time there and learned a lot.
The most important things I learned were how to work hard, be responsible, and work as part of a team. I also learned more about how a business runs day to day.
What I enjoyed most was being outdoors and getting involved in the practical work at the fish farm.
My greatest challenge was trying new tasks that I had not done before, but it helped me to become more confident.