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.