George, who attends Budehaven Community College, had a work experience week at Morrisons’ Bude store whilst in Year 11. Once he had completed the week the staff offered him an extended work experience placement, where he could continue to work a ‘shift’ every Friday.
Getting work experience for George, who has Down’s Syndrome, could have been difficult but his father, Ray Emery, said he really took to the job: “George really enjoyed his time at Morrisons, he really took to it.
“The staff and customers also really took to George and he told me he really loves working at Morrisons and wants to work there after college.”
Speaking about George’s duties during his extended work experience, Mr Emery said: “He mainly stacked shelves but was moved around to different sections as well to try it all out. He has worked well and has certainly given back.
“They had a particular busy time with bananas moving off the shelves at a rate of knots so George concentrated on keeping those stocked up, which he did very well and really enjoyed.”
Mr Emery said the staff at Morrisons have ‘been fantastic’ and have looked after George throughout his time working in the store.
He said: “I have to give special praise to Frazer Cook, who looked out for and took good care of George whilst he was doing his work experience. Frazer runs the greengrocer’s section and that was where George spent most of his time.”
On his final day at Morrisons, the staff surprised George with a little presentation to say thank you for all the hard work he had put in during his extended work experience.
Mr Emery said: “When George completed his work experience the first time around he was presented with a certificate but because of their liking of him the staff decided to present him with a £25 voucher and card to say thank you for the effort he put into his extended work experience. He was delighted to receive it.
“A big thank you to everyone at Morrisons!”