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Winner in the Student Nominated Category

Toyota

Photo: Mairi Taylor (Toyota UK Motor Manufacturing), Lyndsey McAndrew (Placement Student) and Mike Hill (Graduate Prospects)

Toyota is one of the worlds leading car manufacturers, selling 7.5 million cars annually over 5 different continents. Lyndsey McAndrew a student who completed a placement with Toyota, nominated them for this award. She believes that her time at the company clarified the career path she wished to pursue on graduation, increasing her drive and determination to succeed in her final year.

The work placement at Toyota is designed to give students the chance to offer a real contribution to the company, Lyndsey comments that “I am the only industrial trainee who has successfully lead and completed a process reduction activity…the project I was involved in has greatly benefited the company.”

The recruitment process at Toyota is rigorous, applicants are required to complete psychometric tests as well as an extended application. Those shortlisted are required to attend an assessment centre followed by a panel interview. The placement offered regular formal and informal feedback including formal assessment and meetings to monitor progress and set targets.

Lyndsey believes that the experience she gained at Toyota was invaluable in broadening her practical knowledge and gaining some ‘hands-on’ experience as well as enabling her to put the theory studied at university into practice within an industrial environment.

Key Success Factors

  • Students are paired with a mentor who works closely with them throughout the placement offering advice and guidance.
  • A rigorous application process, similar to most graduate recruitment processes to enable students to gain relevant interview experience.
  • An in depth induction, including information on the company culture and mission.
  • Students are offered numerous training courses which are both general and role specific.
"“You are given responsibility straight away, receiving training and regular reviews from which targets are set for your next review so you are constantly challenged and pushed to improve.” - Lyndsey McAndrew, Placement Student."