Services for Young People works in partnership with Hertfordshire's further education (FE) colleges and employers to provide Supported Internships that help young people with additional needs into work. They are for young people aged 16-25 who have an education, health and care plan (EHCP), who want to move into employment but need support to do so.
What is a Supported Internship?
A Supported Internship is a structured study programme offered by all four further education colleges in Hertfordshire. Most of the learning takes place in the workplace; interns are supported and given on-the-job training by job coaches and learn about work by being in work. At the same time they receive education in essential areas, such as maths and English.
Supported Internships are designed to enable young people with additional needs to achieve sustainable employment by equipping them with the skills they need for the job. The internship should contribute to the young person’s long-term career goals and fit with their working capabilities. For the employer, it must meet a real business need, and ideally offer the potential of a paid job for the young person at the end of the programme of study, as they will have demonstrated they can do the job.
What are the benefits of a Supported Internship?
Interns see many benefits, including improvements in:
- confidence and motivation
- decision-making skills
- communication skills
- their social networks
The programme also shows employers what young people with additional needs can achieve.
Interested in finding out more?
Alternatively, you can contact one of the four Hertfordshire further education colleges below or email [email protected].
