Real Work Experience in a Fully Functioning Retail Environment I have been working and training at Bedfords shop for about a year. Before this I was on a work placement in an office, which was ok but I didn’t get to meet anybody. I prefer being at Bedfords because I get to interact with people and this has made me feel more confident. I now find communicating with others and the public easier. My biggest achievement at Bedfords was completing my Level 1 NVQ Diploma in Retail. Training at the shop has also given me much more structure and routine in my life - I am continuing to get up early and have joined a gym in order to get fit. Next, I would like to do a higher level NVQ in retail and hospitality.