Supported Internships
Supported internships are a structured study programme based primarily at an employer. They enable young people aged 16-24 with a statement of SEN, or an Education, Health and Care plan to achieve sustainable paid employment by equipping them with the skills they need for work, through learning in the workplace. Supported internships are unpaid, and last for a minimum of six months. Wherever possible, they support the young person to move into paid employment at the end of the programme. Alongside their time at the employer, young people complete a personalised study programme which includes the chance to study for relevant substantial qualifications, if appropriate, and English and maths.
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Answering some Frequently Asked Questions about supported internships
What will it cost me to offer a supported internship work placement?
Will the young person fit into my workplace?
What happens if things go wrong?
What do I, as an employer, need to do?
What support will I receive during the internship?
What happens at the end of the internship?
Will the young person fit into my workplace?
What happens if things go wrong?
What do I, as an employer, need to do?
What support will I receive during the internship?
What happens at the end of the internship?
Why host a supported internship placement?
There are lots of good reasons to host a supported internship work placement, which is FREE to the employer. As well as making a contribution to society and increasing the diversity of your workforce to reflect your customers and society, the benefits to your business include:
Advice from DfE - Supported Internships
The Department for Education (DfE) has published updated advice on supported internships called 'Supported internships: Advice for further education colleges, sixth forms in academies, maintained and non-maintained schools, independent specialist providers, other providers of study programmes and local authorities'.
Supported internships and benefits
The Department for Education (DfE) has published updated advice on supported internships called 'Supported internships: Advice for further education colleges, sixth forms in academies, maintained and non-maintained schools, independent specialist providers, other providers of study programmes and local authorities'. This advice is non-statutory, and has been produced to help recipients develop and offer supported internships.
Access to Work Fund
Young people on or about to start the work experience placement of a supported internship, or traineeship with a disability or health condition, can apply to the Department for Work and Pensions' Access to Work fund for the costs of job coaches.