Supported internships are study programmes for young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) who need extra support to move into employment.
They can work as a stepping-stone towards a paid apprenticeship or employment.
Why InFocus?
We have expertise and experience in supporting young people with vision impairment get into the work place.
We know that having a sight loss or a vision impairment can make it difficult to get into the world of work. Sometimes employers need a bit of help making sure that they’re offering you the right support.
Our Supported Internship programme combines placements in a range of sectors.
We work with new and existing partners to find the right placement for you, as well as giving advice and support tailored to your visual impairment needs.
This might involve helping you:
- access information or materials through Braille or access technology coaching
- become confident in getting to, from and around your place of work
- develop skills in English, Maths or ICT
- write your CV and cover letter
- develop interview skills and techniques
We also offer ongoing support after your placement has finished. We do this to ensure that you have the best possible chance of getting into a job or an apprenticeship.
Is it for me?
We would love to hear from you if you’re aged 16 to 24 and have a vision impairment and other Special Educational Needs. (You don’t have to be registered sight impaired or severely sight impaired). To start a conversation please email us or call 01392 454200.
How does a supported internship work?
A supported internship works by giving the young person the opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge as well as build up their confidence and work experience in a real-life working environment.
The programme can provide students with the opportunity to develop their skills further, such as learning how to manage a budget, communicate with colleagues and customers, and use modern technology. They will also learn how to work in a professional setting whilst developing problem solving skills. During the placement, they will be supported by a mentor who will guide them throughout the programme.
How does a supported internship differ from a regular internship?
Supported internships differ from regular internships in that they are specifically tailored to meet the needs of young people with special education needs.
These programmes provide additional support, including job coaching, mentoring, and personalised learning plans, to help participants overcome any barriers they may face in the workplace. Regular internships, on the other hand, are typically open to a wider range of candidates and may not provide the same level of individualised support.
How long does a supported internship last?
The duration of a supported internship can vary depending on the specific program and the needs of the individual. On average, supported internships typically last for one academic year, which is equivalent to around 9 to 12 months. During this time, students will have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, develop transferable skills, and receive ongoing support to enhance their employability.
Get in touch today for more details!
