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 the 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.

Here are some local organisations offering Supported Internships & Apprenticeships in Somerset:

• Somerset Enterprise Business Partnership – Provides links to local supported internships. You can download the Supported Internship Offer 2024/25 for additional contact details.

• Sixteen Coop – A social enterprise co-operative in Bristol and South Gloucestershire offering job coaching, supported employment, and supported self-employment.

• St. Werburghs City Farm – Offers Supported Farming, Green Care & Assisted Training Placements in a beautiful green space surrounded by allotments and the Narroways Nature Reserve.

• Bridgwater & Taunton College offers Supported Internships for young people aged 16-24 with an EHCP, helping them gain valuable work experience and transition into employment.

• Yeovil College – Runs a one-year specialised programme for individuals with an EHCP, providing work experience, employability skills, and a transition into paid employment.

• Strode College – Offers Supported Internships (Entry Level to Level 3) for young people aged 16-24 with an EHCP who are looking to gain employment.