Devon’s SEND Local Offer

Supported internships

What is a supported internship?

A supported internship is a work-based learning program for young people aged 16 to 24 with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). It helps you gain skills and experience to get a paid job.

  • Unpaid and lasts 6 to 12 months
  • Requires an education, health and care plan (EHCP)
  • Split between work and college learning
  • Support from a job coach and college tutor

Goals of a supported internship

  • Teach skills that employers want
  • Show what you can do in the workplace
  • Build confidence in your abilities

Success is measured by getting paid employment.

Who can apply?

  • Young people aged 16 to 24
  • Have an EHCP

No entry requirements. Your college will create a plan that suits your needs.

Benefits of a supported internship

  • Gain experience for your CV
  • Show employers and family what you can do
  • Improve English and maths skills
  • Learn to travel independently
  • Practice interview and money-handling skills

Note: Internships are unpaid and count as full-time education. You cannot claim Job Seekers Allowance during the course. You may be able to claim Universal Credit.

Where to find supported internships in Devon

Colleges

Other training providers

The Devon and Cornwall Training Providers Network (DCTPN) are a not-for-profit organisation with charitable status that operates across Devon, Cornwall and the wider South West peninsula.

They aim to promote the value of vocational and technical education, supporting people into work or further study, via education, training and skills.

Lots of information about different training opportunities – including supported internships – is available on their website: Devon & Cornwall Training Provider Network – Find Skills and Training Support


Provider directory

DCPTN work with a diverse group of training providers, including six FE Colleges, three universities, and more than 30 independent training providers.

Their Which Way, Your Way provider directory (pages 28–93) lists all the training providers offering in Devon, including those offering supported internships).

ROC College

  • One-year course
  • Work placement supported by a job coach
  • One day a week in college to complete English and maths and/or relevant workplace qualifications

Find out more about ROC College’s employment pathways

Eat That Frog CIC

  • One-year course for ages 16–24 with an EHCP
  • Work placement with a job coach
  • One day a week at Eat That Frog studying maths, English and independent living or employment skills

Find out more about supported internships at Eat That Frog

The Deaf Academy

Find out more about the Deaf Academy

InFocus College

Find out more about supported internships at InFocus College

Lifeworks College

Find out more about supported internships at Lifeworks College

Useful links

Immersive Reader