College pilots Government scheme (From Northwich Guardian)
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College pilots Government scheme
11:20am Monday 15th October 2012 in News
By Gina Bebbington
A NORTHWICH college is one of 14 across England trialling a Government programme to help young people with special educational needs into long term jobs.
Supported internships will be piloted at Mid Cheshire College for people aged between 16 and 25 who have complex learning difficulties or disabilities.
The trials will test a study programme for supported internships that could be adopted by all further education colleges from September 2013.
Principal John Reilly said: “We are really pleased to be involved in one of the small number of Supported Internship pilots being trialled across England.
“We hope to build on our track record of delivering high-quality programmes for people with disabilities by helping up to 15 young people to successfully secure jobs within their communities.”
Supported Internships will provide a structured study programme, based at an employer, that is tailored to the individual needs of the young person and will equip them with the skills they need for the workplace.
“Giving these young people experience of work allows the young adults to boost their confidence and empowers them to become more independent,” Mr Reilly said.
Many local retailers, supermarkets, garages and garden centres are supporting the scheme.
Course tutor Zena Eaton said: “The aim of the scheme is to find paid work for those with learning difficulties.
“Students will come to the college one day each week and gain an award in skills for employment and a functional skill in either English, maths or ICT.
“The remainder of the time will be spent within the workplace on an internship matching the skills the student is learning in the college.
“The student will have a job coach who will stay with them for the duration of their internship, which will lead to a paid job at the end of the year within the company.”
For further information on the scheme ring Zena Eaton on 01606 720715 or 720642 or email zeaton@midchesh.ac.uk.
