Supported internships are structured study programmes designed to give 16-24 year olds with complex learning difficulties or disabilities first-hand experience of work. There are no entry or completion requirements for supported interships. Young people with EHC plans will retain their plan when undertaking a supported internship.
Internships normally last for a year and include extended unpaid work placements of at least six months. Wherever possible, they support the young person to move into paid employment at the end of the programme.
Colleges, Sixth forms and specialist providers can offer internship study programmes which involve:
- A personalised programme which meets the young person's needs and develops their skills. It can offer a chance to study English and Maths and qualifications if suitable. There is a large emphasis on building skills to help the young person progress in their work placement e.g. good communication and social skills, understanding the work place, general life skills such as independent travel, using money etc
- Carefully matched work placement with an employer based on a thorough understanding of the student's potential, abilities, interests and areas they want to develop.
- Expert coaches who support both the young person and their employers on-the-job.
Please download the West London guide to Supported Internships for further information on the opportunities available.
