Supported Internships & Apprenticeships

Supported internships are a structured, work-based study programme for 16- to 24-year-olds with SEND, who have an EHC plan. The core aim of a supported internship study programme is a substantial work placement, facilitated by the support of an expert job coach.

Supported interns are enrolled and supported by a learning provider, for example, a school or college, but spend most of their learning time – typically around 70% – in a workplace.

The internships provide the opportunity for young people to achieve sustained, paid employment by equipping them with the skills they need for work, through learning in the workplace.

Supported interns are in full-time education and their supported internship work placements are part of their course. There is no legal requirement or expectation that the supported intern will be paid. Supported internships are exempt from the National Minimum Wage regulation. Supported internships last for a minimum of 6 months, and up to a year.

Click here to learn more about Supported Internships, Guidance – Supported internships.

The table below contains links to local organisations that provide Supported Internships and Apprenticeships.

Imagine the Possibilities	Somerset Enterprise Business Partnership provides links to local supported internships. For additional contact details download this pdf, Supported Internship Offer 2024/25
Sixteen Coop	Sixteen is a social enterprise co-operative operating in the Bristol and South Glos. areas providing job coaching, supported employment and supported self-employment.
St. Werburghs City Farm	St Werburghs City Farm in Bristol provide some Supported Farming, Green Care & Assisted Training Placements within a safe and beautiful green space in St Werburghs surrounded by allotments and the Narroways Nature Reserve.
Yeovil College	The college runs a one academic year specialised programme designed to provide individuals with an EHCP the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, develop employability skills, and transition into paid employment.
Strode College	Strode College in Street provide Supported Internships (Entry Level to Level 3) aimed at young people aged 16-24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and a desire to get a job.