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.
Most supported internships take place with one employer for the whole year during the supported internship. You might try out different roles or departments within that employer, depending on what suits you best.
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.