Project SEARCH
We've launched an exciting new programme at Kings College Hospital. Seven interns started their internship on 13 November 2021. The hospital is working in partnership with Lambeth College, Unity Works and Lambeth's SEND and Economic Inclusion Teams.
You can read more about the partnership on the Kings College Hospital website.
What are supported internships?
Supported internships are study programmes based in the workplace. They help young people with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan take the important step from education into employment.
Internships are unpaid and usually last between six and nine months. The interns follow study programmes that give them all the training, support and work skills they need to move straight into work.
Most of the learning is done in a real workplace. An employer gives the interns work experience, trains them to do a real job role, giving them the chance to learn the skills needed for work.
Tutors support the interns with their learning. Job coaches get the interns ready to search for jobs, help them make applications and prepare for interviews.
Interns can also study for qualifications and might do other training or learning as part of a personalised study programme that helps you be ready to take up a job.
Why supported internships?
Supported internships are the best route into paid employment for many young people with education, health and care plans. They offer real work experience combined with all the support of being in school or college.
Who are they for?
Supported internships are for young people aged 16-24 with an EHC plan who want to move into employment and need extra support to do so.
Where to find them
All further education colleges, sixth form and independent specialist providers can offer supported internships.
Local colleges offering supported internships include:
Find out more
Find out about supported internships from schools, colleges, social workers, transition workers, or from Job Centre Plus.
Mencap, the learning disability charity, runs supported internships across the country.