On September 14, 2005 Knowledge Dock was awarded the title of ‘Best Agency in London and the South East’ for the Shell Technology and Enterprise Programme (STEP).  The programme helps small and medium-sized businesses develop their potential by utilising the high level skills of the UK’s brightest undergraduates. By bringing new skills and focused enthusiasm to their employers, they help businesses to kick-start and manage development ideas.

 

The students participate in an 8-week summer placement with various companies throughout the United Kingdom, assisting in an array of projects ranging from marketing campaigns to implementing new IT systems.

 

Businesses and students can mutually benefit from the STEP programme. Participating companies are able to develop their business in terms of growth and sustainability, and are able to save time and acquire new skills without incurring major costs. Students use the experience to enhance their employability skills, apply the knowledge they have learned in University to real-life situations and gain a practical insight into business that assists them in improving their personal and professional skills.

Knowledge Dock and the University are keen to bring students and businesses closer together and this is not the first time that their efforts have been recognised, in 2003 when they won the award for ‘Best New Agency in the UK’. Gareth Lewis, the Business Services Manager at Knowledge Dock appeared thrilled at the success they achieved this year. ‘We are really pleased to receive the award as it recognises our enthusiasm and commitment to the STEP programme.’ When asked about Knowledge Dock’s future plans for the STEP programme he replied, ‘ We’re hoping to build on our achievements with STEP to date by running even more programmes which continue to benefit local students and businesses alike.’

© Knowledge Dock 2005