What is a supported internship?
A supported internship is a work-based learning program for young people aged 16–24 with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). It helps you gain skills and experience to get a paid job.
- Unpaid and lasts 6–12 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 16–24
- Have an EHCP
No entry requirements. Your college will create a plan that suits your needs.
Where to find supported internships in Devon
Bicton College
- One-year course (36 weeks)
- Work up to 3 days a week with a job coach
- College 2 days a week for English, Maths, and work skills
Find out more about supported internships at Bicton College
Exeter College
- One-year course
- Work most of the week with a job coach
- College 1 day a week for teamwork, communication, and English/Maths
Petroc College
- One-year course for ages 16–24 with an EHCP
- Work placement with a job coach
- College 1 day a week for employability and English and Maths
Find out more about supported internships at Exeter College
Project SEARCH (Barnstaple)
- For people with learning disabilities or autism
- One-year course
- 5 days a week
- Three 10-week placements at North Devon District Hospital, with the support of a job coach
- Supported by Petroc college
Find out more about supported internships at Petroc College
South Devon College
South Devon College runs two different supported internship programmes, for students aged 18 to 24 who want to move into employment, and need extra support to do so.
- Bridges into Work: Community placements
- Aspire: Placements at Torbay Hospital
Find out more about supported internships at South Devon College
Plymouth City College
- One-year course for ages 16–25
- Work placements with Plymouth City Council
- Course runs 3 days a week
Find out more about supported internships from Plymouth City Council
Other providers
Independent training providers also offer internships. Check the Which Way, Your Way Devon booklet (pages 24–87) for more options.
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.
Extra help
You may be able to get support from Access to Work, which can pay for a job coach if needed. Learn more at: Supported Internships and Access to Work.
Useful links
- Supported Internships – GOV.UK
- What are Supported Internships? – NDTi
- Stories of Supported Internships – NDTi
- Internships Work: Resources for Young People and Families – NDTi
- What are Supported Internships? A Short Guide for Young People – NDTi
- British Association for Supported Employment
- Devon – Your Futures
- Which Way? Your Way! Devon. Information about post-16 training and education options available, and the training providers who offer these across Devon.