What is a supported internship?

A supported internship is a study programme based in a real workplace. It helps you:

  • try out different jobs
  • learn new skills
  • gain a qualification (these are 'certificates' or 'awards' and show others what you can do)

You'll spend most of your time learning on the job and some time in a classroom.

Videos from young people who have done supported internships:

Who can apply?

Supported internships are for young people who:

  • have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan
  • are aged 18 to 24 (some accept 16+)
  • can travel independently or do travel training
  • want to move into paid work after the internship.

What will you do?

Your week will look like this:

  • 4 days in a workplace (e.g. shop, hospital, office)
  • 1 day in a classroom (e.g. West London College or MENCAP)

You'll learn skills like:

  • working with others
  • arriving on time
  • dressing for work
  • communication and teamwork.

You won't be paid during the internship, but it won't affect your benefits.

Where can you work?

Internship roles vary each year. Examples include:

  • human resources
  • information technology
  • reception
  • office administration
  • retail
  • childcare assistant
  • hospitality
  • customer service
  • maintenance
  • cleaning

Key dates for 2026 to 2027

2026

  • January to April : NHS, local organisations, and businesses hold open days
  • February: Supported Internship Fair at West London College
  • March: Your EHC plan is updated to show your next education setting
  • April to July: Send in your application before the school year ends
  • September: Supported internships begin

2027

  • Summer term: Do work placements and apply for jobs
  • July: Internships finish and you graduate with a qualification

Not ready yet?

If you're not quite ready, you can do a pre-supported internship course first.

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