Kate Brooks, final year BA (Hons) History student secured a work placement with Cyfarthfa Castle. She tells us about her role there and how it tied in with her classroom based studies.

"I could not have asked for a better placement than the one I had at Cyfarthfa Castle. My lecturer for the work-based learning module supported me when dealing with the whole organisation, which I found extremely helpful. My time at Cyfarthfa Castle was spent working on a digitalisation project. I was asked to archive historical objects online, categorise them and write a brief description, I would also update the museums itinerary and write interpretations for a new display.

I explored a different artefact daily; everything from swords and armour to hundreds of old photographs. Each piece provided me with an insight into its era and has inspired me to look at careers that work with artefacts or further my education with an archaeology-based Masters. I would highly recommend to anyone, if you have the opportunity to go on a work-based placement to do it! From day one I became a valued member of the team and got stuck in to my role. I gained vitally important experience and contacts for the future.

There were so many different types of placements to choose from, some visited schools or archives so it can be tailored to your needs and interests. I am coming to the end of my degree and I’m so pleased I chose to study at the University of South Wales, from feeling welcome at the Open Day to receiving great support from lecturers and enjoying my course and placement, I definitely made the right decision."