Many students take a well-earned break from exams and studying over the summer, but Fabio Anagni, from France, has instead been working hard on an internship with Capital Refractories Ltd.

Fabio, 23, who is studying to become an engineer at the ESFF (Graduate School of Foundry and Forge) in Sevres, France, and works for a French foundry company, joined Capital in July.

He was one of several students who applied for an internship with Capital, which the company offers to students looking to gain valuable work experience during their studies.
Fabio said: “I sent a message to the company asking about internships and within a day I was accepted to join, I was so happy.”

The internship, which lasted seven weeks, involved Fabio working on several projects, while based in the laboratory at Capital’s headquarters on Station Road, Clowne, Derbyshire, UK.

Fabio said: “I felt in my element here. I have certainly gained another perspective and so much background knowledge, from learning to identify problems to working machinery and analysing results.

“It’s been like being part of a big family, the staff have been great, and I’ve really enjoyed it.”

Dr Mike Lamkin, who leads the scheme at Capital, said: “The internship helps to create good relationships while helping provide students with valuable hands-on experience.

“Fabio has definitely been one of the best interns we have had. He’s fitted in well, gets on well with everyone, and has been a real asset to the company while he’s been here.”

Highlights for Fabio while he’s been staying in the UK, include a visit to the famous Crooked Spire in Chesterfield and to a typical British pub or two.
In his spare time Fabio likes drawing, walking, travelling and meeting up with friends. He plans to spend a couple of days sightseeing in London before his return to France.