This episode of the Sheffield Digital Podcast discusses the benefits and value of hosting work placements as part of The Sheffield College's T-Levels program. The discussions highlight how these placements help bridge the gap between education and the workforce, preparing students for future careers while also benefiting local businesses by nurturing homegrown talent.

Tom King from Reach Studios shares his insights on mentoring T-Level students, the importance of industry placements, and his personal journey in the tech sector. He emphasises the significance of real-world experience for students, stating, “It's a way for us to provide the best opportunity possible for that next generation.”

At the end of the episode, Shani Clifford, Head of Student Employability at The Sheffield College, discusses the importance of T-levels, their difference from A-levels, and the positive impact these placements are making on students. She also highlights the support and opportunities provided to students and employers involved in the program.

Links

T-Levels at The Sheffield College website

Reach Studios website

The Sheffield College website

Tom King on LinkedIn

Shani Clifford on LinkedIn

Contacts

The Sheffield College - Work Related Activity Team

industryplacements@sheffcol.ac.uk

Recording information

The interview with Tom King was recorded on 20th August 2025. The interview with Shani Clifford was recorded on 21st May 2025.

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We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email info@sheffield.digital

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Angel shares her unconventional career path, transitioning from over 20 years in the food industry to the tech world and eventually founding her own consultancy. She discusses the inspiration behind her career change, the importance of continual learning, and her expertise in using playful methodologies like LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and AI Design Sprints™ to help organizations navigate change and develop strategies.

Angel emphasises the value of resilience, curiosity, and a hands-on approach in her journey. She also touches on her experiences in sketching, the challenges and rewards of starting anew in a different industry, and her vision for the future of her consultancy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a major career change.

Angel has a background in Product Development, Project Management, User Experience, User Research, and Service Design, and favours analogue methods for digital problems, creating fun and engaging workshops for remarkable results. Before co-founding Dot & Dash Consulting, she led the development of innovative food products for major brands. With over 20 years as a consultant and a pivot to the digital sector, her vast experience in manufacturing, health, education, mobile gaming, betting, and design fuels her innovative ideas.

Angel holds certifications as an AI Design Sprint™ Facilitator, along with being a LEGO® Serious Play® method and materials facilitator, Scrum Master, and Design Sprint Facilitator. Additionally, she plays leadership and director roles in volunteer organisations.

Subscribe to the podcast

If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Notes and Links

This interview was recorded online by Sarah Lister on 28th May 2025.

Links

Dot & Dash Consulting - website

Dot & Dash Consulting - Sheffield Digital Company Spotlight

Angel Takooree on LinkedIn

Did we miss something you’re looking for? Just get in touch and let us know.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email info@sheffield.digital

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

In this episode, we interview Kieran, a Senior Product Manager from the Home Office's Police and Public Protection Technology portfolio. Kieran discusses his role in managing the product lifecycle, his career journey from university to the Home Office, and the diverse skill set required for his job.

Kieran also shares his experiences as an LGBTQ+ professional, highlighting the inclusive culture and meaningful support he’s received while working with the Home Office, and describes how being neurodiverse has positively impacted his career.

Subscribe to the podcast

If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Notes and Links

This interview was recorded online by Sarah Lister, Membership Coordinator at Sheffield Digital, on 5th June 2025.

Links

Home Office Careers: https://careers.homeoffice.gov.uk/

References

Digital Data and Technology Department (DDaT)

University of East Anglia (UEA)

Did we miss something you’re looking for? Just get in touch and let us know.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email info@sheffield.digital

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.