My Placement Journey at Aire Logic with NHS England
Mandini Hettiarachchi
Computer Science with AI
Hello! I’m Mandini Hettiarachchi, and I'm from Sri Lanka.
Hello! I’m Mandini Hettiarachchi, a second-year Computer Science with AI student, currently on my placement year. This year, I have the incredible opportunity to work as a Junior Data Analyst and Data Scientist at Aire Logic, actively contributing to NHS England’s Digital Prevention Services (DPS) vaccination project under the Manage Your Appointment (MYA) squad.
Getting started and my role
When I first started my placement, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But from day one, I’ve been amazed at how much I’ve learned and experienced. My role involves working with large datasets—collecting, cleaning, and analysing information about vaccination appointments—and transforming it into actionable insights using Python, Power BI, and other tools. It’s incredible to see how data can directly impact healthcare operations, helping ensure that patients can access their vaccinations efficiently and safely.
Making real-world impact
One of the highlights so far has been traveling to London for the NHS DPSP vaccinations event. Being on-site was an eye-opening experience. I got to see how the team uses live dashboards to track appointments and ensure everything runs smoothly. Watching the real-world impact of the analysis I contributed to was exciting and motivating; it made me feel like my work truly mattered.
Working alongside talented professionals
Beyond the technical side, what I enjoy most about my placement is the people. Working alongside talented professionals in the same field has been inspiring. Every day brings opportunities to learn something new, whether it’s a clever way to analyse data, a different workflow, or insight into the healthcare sector. I’ve also had the chance to build friendships, collaborate on challenges, and grow my confidence in a professional environment.
Team bonding experiences
Some of my favourite memories have come from the team bonding experiences outside of work. For example, our away weekend at Centre Parcs Sherwood Forest was an unforgettable experience. Spending time with the team in a relaxed environment, playing games, sharing stories, and exploring the forest made me feel part of a close-knit and supportive community. Another highlight was the Christmas event in Leeds, held at a hotel, where we celebrated the year together, laughed, and reflected on our achievements. These experiences not only strengthened my connections with colleagues but also reminded me of the importance of team spirit and camaraderie.
Building industry skills
The placement has taught me so much about adaptability, communication, and teamwork. Balancing multiple tasks, preparing reports, supporting live events, and coordinating with different teams has helped me develop skills that I know will be invaluable in my future career. I feel lucky to be in a workplace that encourages learning, celebrates successes, and values every member’s contribution.
Overall, my experience at Aire Logic has been more than just professional growth—it’s a journey of discovery, learning, connection, and gratitude. I am thankful for the guidance and support from my colleagues, the friendships I’ve formed, and the opportunity to work on a project that truly impacts public health. I’m excited to continue this journey, tackle new challenges, and see how far I can grow as a data professional.
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