Supported internships offer 16-24 year olds with a learning difficulty, disability or autism, an opportunity to build their skills and confidence to go into paid work. Supported internships are a way of encouraging participation among this group who are often disproportionately excluded in society.
NHS England Choices College is a specialist College providing tailored educational support, and a supported internship course for young adults aged 16 24 with learning disabilities/difficulties and /or Autism. They partner with NHS healthcare settings, local organisations, and private businesses to create supported work environments that provide real work experience for learners .
Choices College support is tailored to each learner, based on their skills and interests. Interns spend 1-year learning maths, English and employability skills and attend up to three, 12-week placements with a Choices College Partner. The College is supported by the NHS as part of the ongoing commitment to improving employment outcomes for vulnerable groups.
The College is NHS-based within NHS England.
Choices College interns use the course as a pre-entry level qualification to move into apprenticeships, work or further education.
In 2021 – 2022 academic year, of the Choices College interns that completed the course:
- 59% entered paid employment, apprenticeships or volunteering roles.
- 20% went on to complete further higher education
Intern Stories:
Read more about Nathan’s experiences at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust. Nathan is now working as a Ward Assistant in the Emergency Department.
Read about Matthew’s Intern story who is on placement within the Histology lab at North Tees Hospital.
Learn more about Josh’s experiences at Redcar Primary Care Hospital where he has undertaken a placement within the portering department.
Find out more about Choices College here
