AN internship programme is celebrating its continued success of finding work for those with educational needs.

Green Lane Community Special School in Woolston is in its third year of running the Willow Green 19-25 trust, which helps pupils with learning difficulties secure jobs.

Each intern has managed to get a job in line with their personal aspirations.

Abigail, a pupil at Willow Green, wanted to work in customer service and has now secured a place at Vaultex.

She said: "I am happy that I have taken up the opportunity to take up the course.

"This has made me feel more inspired and ready for the world of work."

Tom, who is working at Grange Packaging, added: "The opportunity to go out and work has made me feel happy and a sense of achievement."

Other employees for those on the scheme include: Sainsbury's, RSPCA, Warrington Town Hall, Warrington Borough Council Transport, Woolston Sixth Form, Asda, Warrington Hospital, Warrington Wolves and Contact Warrington.

As part of their supported internships, the students spend one day a week in college in Woolston Learning Village.

Stephen Capper, supported internship programme leader, said he makes sure the process pays attention to the learners' difficulties.

He said: "We hold stripped back interviews and match their placements to what they want to do.

"It's just going from strength to strength.

"The people involved are really recognising the benefits of employing people with learning difficulties.

"We've broken down some of those barriers with employers."

Neil Woodward, SEND employer engagement coordinator for Warrington Borough Council, has been keen to support the programme.

He explained: "All this is about improving outcomes for young people and using work as a vehicle to give people an ordinary life.

"We have been trying to improve outcomes by helping people from an earlier age to get on the right path and we'd like all people to have this chance, whatever their situation.

"We wanted to support Woolston Green and the site because we'd like young people with additional needs to engage with their community and get that support into work.

"We're trying to lead by example and we're hosting some interns- we'd like to encourage the business community to get on board too.

"These interns never fail to amaze and inspire us.

"They really relish the opportunity and placements like these can really change someone's life."

If you are interested in applying for the next cohort of interns, or for more information, email stephen.capper@greenlaneschool.co.uk or visit @willowgreenSI on Twitter.