Warrington BC - Supported Internships

What are supported internships?

A supported internship is a study programme which is delivered by local further education colleges and training providers based primarily at an employer. They enable young people aged 16-24 with an Education, Health and Care plan to achieve sustainable paid employment by equipping them with the skills they need for work, through learning in the workplace.

Alongside their time at the employer, young people complete a personalised study programme which includes the chance to study for relevant substantial qualifications, if appropriate, and English and maths.

Supported internships were designed especially to help young people with an EHC Plan that, “want to move into employment and need extra support to do so.”

The council oversee supported internships; providing support and guidance to students, families, employers and education partners, including hosting a forum which regularly brings together all stakeholders.

There are a number of providers that deliver supported internships in Warrington, as well as other pathways to employment that include work trials and/or work experience, including:

•             Warrington & Vale Royal College
•             Willow Green Trust
•             Expanse Learning
•             Pettypool

Supported internships work best when a person’s aspirations and skills are matched to an employer. For the employer, the internship must meet a real business need and provide the potential of a paid job at the end of the programme, should the intern meet the required standard.

Who can apply?

You must:
•             be 16 – 24 years of age
•             have a current education health & care plan
•             want to work

What is the application process?

You can apply directly to colleges and training providers. It is a good idea to discuss your options with your family and at your annual review. You could also get advice from careers for young people at Warrington Borough Council.

What are the benefits?

• Individualised study programme
• Opportunity to continue to develop English, maths & ICT skills
• Tailored programme designed to meet the young person’s requirements, needs and aspirations
• Transferable work skills with opportunities to practice skills in real life situations.
• A real possibility of paid employment at the end of the Internship.
• Employer and job coach working closely alongside the learner.
• Work experience with a range of employers – learning on the job.

How long will it last?

A minimum of six months, but usually a full academic year.

What support is available?

A job coach will be on hand to support the young person at their placement and they will also have the support of their tutor at college or the training organisation.

Financial support may also be available through access to work funding and can help pay for the support an individual may need because of their special educational needs or disability, for example:

• Aids and equipment in the workplace
• Adapting equipment to make it easier to use.
• Money toward any additional travel costs to and from work if the young person cannot use available public transport, or they need help to adapt a vehicle.
• An interpreter or other communication support at a job interview or other practical help at work, such as a job coach or a sign language interpreter.

For more information on Access To Work

Will I get paid?

No – a supported internship is part of your education, but hopefully it will develop into a paid job.

Where can I get more information?

• You can contact the colleges and/or training providers directly.
• Easy read information
• Neil Woodward, SEND Employer Engagement Coordinator, Warrington Borough Council, 07824 087412, nwoodward@warrington.gov.uk
• Careers for young people