For those who are aged 16 to 24 with SEND, employment can be a daunting prospect. However, supported internships offer valuable support for young people with an ECHP (Education Health and Care Plan) moving into employment. Helping those who may face barriers to finding and maintaining a job.

In this post, we’ll explain:

• The meaning of supported internships and how they work
• Aims
• Benefits 
• Timescale
• How supported internships work at InFocus

What are supported internships?

Supported internships are study programmes for SEND students aged 16 to 24, who require extra support to transition into employment. These programmes can serve as a pathway to a paid apprenticeship or job opportunity, whilst building key skills needed for work.

How do supported internships work?

During this time, young people can gain skills, knowledge, confidence, and work experience in a real working environment. Students receive the training and support to develop key skills like budget management, communication, and technology usage.

Courses normally involve a combination of workplace and college training. Unlike apprenticeships, they provide a higher level of support. This includes support from a mentor or job coach, and other support for non-workplace learning throughout the placement.

What is a job coach?

Job coaches work closely with both the employer and the intern to ensure that they are able to succeed in their role. They provide guidance, support, and assistance as needed, helping the intern to build new skills and confidence in the workplace.

Aims of supported internships

The main aim is to support young people’s transition from education to employment. Also helping to prepare them for future job opportunities. Other aims are to:

• Develop skills that are attractive to employers
• Show their worth in a work setting
• Build confidence in their ability to succeed at work.

Benefits of supported internships

Like any type of support programme, internships offer a range of benefits for young people with SEND, including:

• Practical work experience in a real workplace setting
• Build your CV and gain valuable skills
• Increased confidence and independence
• Improved employability and job prospects
• Opportunity to showcase their skills and potential to employers
• Potential progression to paid employment or further training

Timescale of supported internships

Supported internship durations vary depending on the programme and individual needs. On average, they last one academic year, which is basically the equivalent to 9 to 12 months. Students will gain work experience, develop skills, and receive support to improve employability. 

50% of their time will be in the workplace, gaining hands-on experience and building skills. While the rest is spent in the classroom, learning key concepts and receiving additional support.

Funding for supported internships

Internships are typically funded through a combination of sources. The Education Funding Agency (EFA) provides support to colleges and training providers to deliver supported internships as part of their study programmes for young people with SEND.

Local authorities may also provide additional funding to support the internship, such as funding for job coaches or additional support services.

Employers can also contribute funding to cover the costs of hosting the internship, such as providing training materials or equipment.

Supported internships at InFocus

At InFocus, we offer supported internships for young people with SEND to help them transition into the world of work. Our programmes offer placements in various sectors. We work with partners to find placements suited to the learner’s needs and provide tailored support for their visual impairment.

Support may include coaching in Braille or access technology, or developing skills in English, Maths, or ICT. Guidance on CV writing and interview skills is another aspect. We also offer ongoing support to increase the chances of securing a job or apprenticeship after the placement ends.

Work related learning

Work related learning is a big part of the learning experience, helping young people prepare for life after college. This includes those who have studied at our specialist college or those who are transitioning from mainstream further education settings.

Aside from supported internships, we also offer employability training and work experience.

Employability training helps individuals gain skills for success in the workplace. It covers employability skills such as job search techniques, CV writing, interview skills, communication, teamwork, and computer literacy. Whereas, work experience introduces our students to real working environments and job roles.

How to apply for a supported internship at InFocus

To apply, students must be aged between 16 and 24 with an ECHP and have a vison impairment.

If you are already a student at InFocus College, you can speak to your tutor or support worker about applying for a supported internship. If you are not currently a student at InFocus, you can contact us directly to discuss your options.

To start a conversation, please email us or call 01392 454200. We look forward to helping you take the next step towards your future career!