Preparing for adulthood
Employment
Employment is a way of gaining new skills, becoming more independent, meeting new people and possibly earning some money. Knowing what employers are disability friendly can be tricky, look out for:
- the 'disability confident' symbol
- the 'positive about disabled people' symbol (with 2 ticks)
These both mean that the employer is committed to employing disabled people, you will be guaranteed an interview if you meet the basic requirements.
Supported Internships
Supported internships are aimed at young people aged 16 to 24-years-old who have a statement of special educational needs or an Education, Health & Care plan (EHCP), who want to move into employment and need extra support to do so.
Supported internships are offered by Further Education colleges, however most of your learning happens in the workplace. The supported internships provide a mix of educational and practical experience across a range of roles within the workplace.
A supported internship will typically last for one year and includes:
- unpaid work experience of at least 6 months (at least 20 hours of work a week)
- a personalised study programme
- the chance to study for relevant qualifications
The National Development Team for Inclusion have produced an easy guide about Supported Internships, what they involve and how to get one.
Further information is also available on the Essex Local Offer website. The Essex Local Offer is an invaluable source of advice and guidance for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) up to the age of 25-years-old.
Supported internship providers
For more information about supported internships you can speak to career advisors or tutors at several schools or colleges. We have outlined a range of current supported internship providers below with contact details.
Current supported internship providers
- Chelmsford college - [email protected]
- Colchester Institute - [email protected]
- Harlow college - [email protected]
- South Essex college - [email protected]
- USP college - [email protected]
For further information please contact [email protected]
