Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore has visited Keighley College to meet with the team of job coaches and learn more about their Supported Internships programme.
Keighley College offers a wide range of academic, technical and vocational courses, which include Supported Internships. With strong industry links to local, regional and national employers, the College provides students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience and skills through learning in the workplace and increase opportunities for career progression.
First introduced in 2013, Supported Internships are structured, work-based study programmes for young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and have learning disabilities or additional needs.
During the visit, Mr Moore met with job coaches Emma Rich, Frances Day and Karen Gwilliam, who lead on the programme, to hear more about their work and the challenges associated with delivering it.
Delivered in partnership between Keighley College and employers, the programme combines practical work placements of at least two days a week with tailored support from a job coach provided by the College. These unpaid placements run for the academic year, from September to July, with students also spending one day a week in college studying employability and, where appropriate, continuing with maths and English.
Employers in the town already signed up to the scheme include Acorn Stairlifts, Sue Ryder and Eastwood Community School. The programme focuses on developing transferable skills, workplace confidence and employability, with the goal of helping interns transition into paid employment after completion. Job coaches, supplied by the College, also provide ongoing support to both the intern and the employer, helping with training, communication and addressing any challenges that may arise.
Mr Moore had high praise for Emma, Frances and Karen for their hard work and dedication to the programme, and paid tribute to employers already participating. He also encouraged more businesses across the Keighley area to consider getting involved in the scheme.
Earlier this year, Mr Moore joined in the celebrations as Keighley College marked its 200th birthday.
Commenting on the visit, Robbie Moore MP said:
“It was fantastic to meet with Emma, Frances and Karen and learn about their work on the brilliant Supported Internships programme.
“Providing support for students as they transition from college to the world of work is absolutely vital – especially for those who have an EHCP or have learning disabilities or additional needs, as they may otherwise face barriers to employment.
“This programme not only gives students a much-needed leg up, but also benefits employers by connecting them with enthusiastic, capable young people. A huge thank you to all the businesses already taking on Supported Interns for their fantastic commitment to inclusive employment across our area. I will continue to promote this opportunity to employers across the Keighley area.”
