Work Experience at R. Locke & Son

I arrived at 8:15 Monday morning to meet George, who introduced me to members of the team and then invited me to join the morning briefing. After that, I was taken around the different departments and shown around the inside of a few vehicles and learn about some of the stretchers, trolleys and lifting equipment used with each.

Later, Sorcha introduced me to the systems they use to keep records and log details of arrangements of funerals. I helped her schedule the bearers for the following week and was able to find out more about how they are organized, taking into account vehicles, locations and members of staff available.

Lunchtime brought an interesting discussion with Rachel, who summarized the company’s branding, website, and social media plans. We geared up for an upcoming meeting with graphic designer Lucy Kirkman, where we dove into the exciting topic of designing new logos for the company’s expansion into bereavement support. The rest of the day and week included tasks related to this project - creating social media posts, sketching logo ideas, and writing this blog, all with insights on Lucy’s creative process.

I finished off my workday at 5 after a check-in with George, who spent half an hour teaching me the formatting for drafting order of service sheets for the following day.

Tuesday morning started at 8:30, and I spent some more time with Sorcha Cataloguing ashes and making some final adjustments to the following week's timetable. The remainder of the morning, I had the eye-opening opportunity to observe both the preparation and embalming processes, which deepened my understanding of the respect and care given to each individual. Even though I was seeking work experience primarily in graphic design, I wanted to stay engaged with every aspect of the business, including the substantial task of caring for the deceased.

The remaining day was spent producing 155 Order of Service sheets for an upcoming service - sending sheet after sheet through the 2 machines: one that creases the card for a neat spine, and another that folds and staples the sheets together. Then, I spent a few hours continuing the brief set by the graphic designer.

Wednesday was another incredible opportunity. I had the chance to accompany the team on two funerals, witnessing the behind-the-scenes operations of both a burial and a cremation. Observing how the bearers worked to deliver an organized and respectful service for the families was profoundly moving. The highlight was seeing behind the scenes of crematory process, where I learned how ashes are created and preserved - a truly unforgettable experience.

Thursday kicked off working with George, finishing paperwork and sitting in on a funeral arrangement meeting with a family. Meeting them firsthand was invaluable; I came away with insights on maintaining strong client relationships and adapting to the varying needs of each interaction.

The afternoon turned its focus to advertising and marketing as an independent funeral director. We watched a webinar detailing how smaller businesses can compete with larger companies, emphasizing the significance of authentic reviews and feedback.

On Friday morning, I spent some time with George, tying up loose ends and reflecting on the week. I had a call with Rachel and the graphic designer to discuss my work, which was enlightening. She shared her thought process and what she had created so far, giving me fresh ideas to take away.

The week concluded with a hands-on experience in the workshop, where Josh and Jason taught me how to make a coffin. I even had the chance to create a stock coffin myself. The attention to detail and the importance of final checks were fascinating aspects of crafting a professionally finished product.

The opportunities I have been given here have let me see things not many others see and taught me valuable lessons I will take into my future. The work and care that goes into every step of their jobs proved to be the biggest revelation of the week.

Thank you to all of the team for being so welcoming and enthusiastic about sharing your knowledge and for giving me the privilege to experience this!

Lizzie, 6th Form, Chipping Campden School