A Supported Internship is a programme for young people aged 16-24 with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan who would like to work and are preparing for their next step from education into employment.
It gives young people the opportunity to learn in a real workplace while receiving support to build their skills, confidence and independence. Throughout the programme, interns are supported by a trained job coach and a workplace mentor, who help them learn their role, develop workplace skills and become part of the team. The aim is to help each young person move closer to paid employment and achieve their future goals.
A Supported Internship usually includes:
- Spending most of the week in a real work placement.
- Support from a trained job coach, workplace mentor and education staff.
- Developing workplace, communication and independence skills.
- Help with English and maths, where needed.
- Learning about travel, routines and responsibilities at work.
- Opportunities to build confidence and become integrated into the workplace.
- Working towards paid employment or another positive employment outcome.
