Supported internships
Programme overview
Our exciting Supported Internship programme is a specialised programme that aims to support young people with SEND to gain the skills and experience needed to progress into paid employment. Young people will spend most of their time on placement and just a small amount of time in the classroom.
Eligibility
Our Supported Internship programme is perfect for you if you are a young person between the ages of 16 - 24 who has or has previously had an Education Healthcare Plan (EHCP) and are ready to take your first steps towards getting a job.
Programme content
You will spend the majority of time on the programme on a work placement (approx. 16 hours per week) however you will also have access to sessions that focus on developing your employability skills such as interview skills, travelling to and from work, budgeting and applying for jobs as well as English and Maths (if needed).
Our Supported Internship programme is supported by Gateshead Council who provide us with a number of placements across the council including:
- catering assistant
- handyperson
- administration assistant
- library assistant
- customer service
- grounds maintenance and many more.....
The programme is supported by our dedicated tutors and job coach who will support you every step of the way to learn and develop those important workplace skills.
Prior experience and knowledge needed
Although it is useful to have had some previous work experience and to be able to travel independently, no prior experience or knowledge is needed as long as you have a willingness to work and try new things.
Materials and equipment
We will provide all materials and equipment you may need for both your classroom sessions and whilst you are on placement.
Assessment
As part of the recruitment process you will be invited to a Skills Day where you will undertake a range of activities that will give us the opportunity to assess your strengths and suitability for the Supported Internship programme.
Once on the programme you will have regular placement reviews with your job coach and workplace mentor. If you are doing English and Maths qualifications, you may sit exams or complete coursework to get your qualification.
Get in touch
To find out more about our Supported Internship offer please look out for our upcoming interest events on social media, call us on 0191 433 8646 or email: supportedinternships@gateshead.gov.uk