A placement year turns classroom learning into real project experience. As Hayden Moore finished his 2025/26 placement with Cold Banana, he reflected on the work, the people and what he would pass on to new starters.
Learning through the work.
Hayden’s day typically started with a conversation about priorities before getting into development tickets. Moving between projects brought variety, from mathematical problems to front-end changes, and the challenge of keeping track of different tasks.
The team around you matters.
Regular conversations with project managers helped him focus on the most important work. He also valued the encouragement from colleagues, the chance to learn something new each day and time together beyond the screen.
Make room for questions.
His advice for the next group of placement students was straightforward: ask when you’re unsure, and be yourself. Getting comfortable with questions is part of developing confidence, whether you’re starting your first placement or tackling an unfamiliar project.
