Empowering Young People with SEND for Paid Employment
Supported internships provide young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), aged 16-24 with Education, Health, and Care (EHC) plans, a pathway to achieve sustainable paid employment. These structured, work-based study programs blend real-world work placements with academic learning, guided by expert job coaches. This initiative not only enhances individual confidence, independence, and career readiness but also promotes inclusivity and diversity in the workforce.
Key Features of Supported Internships
Supported internships are designed to transition young people from education to employment. Interns spend approximately 70% of their learning time in workplace settings, acquiring practical skills while receiving tailored academic support. Job coaches play a pivotal role, aiding both interns and employers by ensuring the workplace environment suits individual needs. Internships typically last 6 months to a year, culminating in a personalized study program inclusive of employability skills and, if needed, English and math qualifications.
These internships differ from traineeships and apprenticeships by focusing exclusively on individuals with SEND, providing intensive, customized support. Unlike apprenticeships, there is no legal obligation for payment, as the internships are classified as educational rather than employment programs.
Why Supported Internships Matter
For Interns: Beyond financial independence, internships foster confidence, enhance social skills, and improve overall well-being.
For Employers: Organizations gain access to a diverse talent pool, creating inclusive workplaces while meeting real business needs.
For Communities: These programs promote economic participation and inclusivity, benefiting society as a whole.
Designing Effective Internships
Education providers are encouraged to design flexible internship models tailored to local needs. Key principles include:
Substantial Work Placements: Interns work in real business environments, adhering to professional standards such as timekeeping and dress codes.
Personalized Study Programs: Academic learning complements workplace experiences, addressing specific skills or certifications needed for the job.
Trained Job Coaches: Coaches support interns’ development while assisting employers in accommodating their needs.
Goal-Driven Approach: The ultimate aim is to secure paid employment for each intern.
Benefits for Learning Providers
Offering supported internships aligns with regulatory expectations like Ofsted standards, showcasing commitment to inclusivity and personalized outcomes. By reducing "learner churn" and providing clear progression paths, these programs demonstrate responsiveness to community needs and uphold values of equality and diversity.
Engaging Employers and Interns
Successful programs require partnerships with employers, starting with targeted engagement to highlight the benefits of employing individuals with SEND. Through tools like vocational profiling and job analysis, providers match interns with roles that align with their skills and aspirations. Employers also benefit from ongoing support, from initial placement arrangements to potential hiring decisions.
For prospective interns, prior work exposure, motivation to work, and family support are essential. Providers help prepare interns for workplace conditions, offering travel training, guidance on workplace culture, and resilience-building activities.
Sustaining Progression Beyond Internships
Securing paid employment is the primary goal, often with the host employer. If this isn’t feasible, support extends to job searches, applications, and interviews. Providers also connect interns with external agencies for long-term support, ensuring positive transitions into the workforce.
Funding and Accessibility
Supported internships are funded as part of 16-19 study programs, with additional resources like Access to Work grants covering practical workplace support such as job coaching and travel expenses. Financial aids like bursaries and free meals further remove barriers to participation.
Conclusion
Supported internships offer transformative opportunities for young people with SEND, bridging the gap between education and employment while fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. To learn more about implementing or participating in these impactful programs, visit the official UK government page here.
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