Boston College students have recently returned from three-week international work experience placements in Berlin, Germany and Seville, Spain, made possible through the Turing Scheme. This government-funded initiative aims to provide students with invaluable global learning opportunities, equipping them with essential skills to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Following a rigorous selection process, 21 students from Business, and Sport, Fitness and Wellbeing made the journey to Berlin, while nine students from Engineering and Digital Technologies travelled to Seville. During their time abroad, both groups of students immersed themselves in professional environments that were tailored to their current college course of study, as well as their specific career aspirations. Each student undertook a work placement within a local business, ranging from IT services and engineering manufacturing to accounting and childcare. This hands-on experience enabled them to develop industry-specific skills, enhance language proficiency, and deepen their cultural awareness.
Speaking about his experience in Spain, Engineering Student, Marshall Scargill, said, “Doing work experience in Spain was incredible. I got the opportunity to do my placement at Nomasa, an aviation manufacturer that produces parts for a range of aeroplanes including the Airbus Tier 2. We worked in a variety of areas, and one task I did was painting a part to stop corrosion. The surreal thing is that the parts we worked on are going to be used to build a working aeroplane! I learned so much while I was there, from international engineering regulations and adapting to a different work culture, to communication skills and teamwork. Alongside the work experience, we had opportunities to socialise and engage with the local community – I played a few football matches with the local people, which was fun! The whole experience has given us all a huge confidence boost and the ambition to live and work abroad in the future.”
The students participating in the scheme not only benefited from international work experience but also developed independent living skills and had the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of two of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Throughout the trip, the students managed their own budgets for food and leisure activities while embracing the chance to immerse themselves in the local life and culture.
Matilda Spencer, Sport, Fitness and Wellbeing student, reflected on her time in Berlin, she said, “Being in Berlin has to be one of the best experiences of my life, having the opportunity to learn new things, such as a new language, the different culture and rich history. I did placement in a Day Care Centre where I looked after loads of amazing children. They were really enthusiastic and we completed many different activities together, including playing in the snow! On the days I wasn’t working, I went out into the city and explored different museums and attractions. My favourite memory by far is overcoming my fear of heights on Europe’s highest swing! This experience has been a once in a lifetime opportunity!”
From exploring the historical landmarks, including the Plaza de España, Catedral de Sevilla, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag, to enjoying day trips to Berlin Zoo, the Berlin Spy Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, the students had a wealth of opportunities to take in the extraordinary sights of the two European cities.
Boston College’s Student Experience Coordinator, Axel Sedgwick, said, “The trip was a great opportunity for the students to develop transferable skills, cultural awareness and independent living skills. The students went to a football match to experience a game at the Olympic Stadium and visited many famous monuments in Berlin. They met the famous panda twins at the Berlin Zoo and reflected on the history of a concentration camp. The overall experience was phenomenal, and it was remarkable to see the students develop whilst on the trip.”
Funded by the UK Government, the Turing Scheme is the UK’s global social mobility and international opportunities programme, replacing Erasmus+ following Brexit. The scheme supports students to study and work abroad, enhancing their career prospects and reinforcing the UK’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in education.
Abid Hussain, Assistant Principal: Student Experience, highlighted the impact of the Turing Scheme, he said, “I am delighted that our students have had the chance to take advantage of this incredible opportunity. The Turing Scheme offers young people a fantastic opportunity to spread their wings and thrive, gaining not only valuable experience in the workplace, but also the chance to travel abroad and experience a different culture, learn a foreign language, and develop their independence. Our students have learned a lot from their three weeks away – they have grown in confidence and enhanced their employability skills to take forward into their future careers.”
Boston College will continue its dedication to championing global education opportunities, ensuring students gain the skills, experiences, and perspectives needed to excel in an increasingly globalised workforce. With initiatives like the Turing Scheme, the College can empower students with transformative experiences that brighten their futures, preparing them to succeed in a diverse and evolving professional landscape.
See the highlights of the students’ international work experience on our social media – [@bostoncollegeuk] on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, and [@bostoncollege.uk] on TikTok.
To switch up your future and access amazing opportunities at Boston College, visit www.boston.ac.uk.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
For more information, please contact Hannah Jones, Boston College Digital Marketing Officer, hannah.jones@boston.ac.uk
About the Turing Scheme
The Turing Scheme is the UK government’s global programme to study and work abroad. The?scheme?provides funding for international?opportunities?in education and training?across the world.?Funding is open to UK and British Overseas Territories organisations from across the education and training sector through higher education,?further or?vocational education and training, and schools’ projects. Eligible?organisations?can apply for funding?through the Turing Scheme?for projects that offer the opportunity to study or gain work experience abroad.
The scheme is delivered by a consortium of the British Council and Ecorys UK.
For more information, visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/turing-scheme-international-placements-2025-to-2026
