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Steps To Success - DFN Project SEARCH Supported Internship

Marketing Title
01/09/2026
Format
25/06/2027
Format
Entry Level 3
Full-Time
NSTSF101 (2026/2027)
Nelson and Colne College - Nelson and Colne College, Scotland Road, Nelson, BB9 7YT
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Course Information

Course Information
Take your next step towards independence with Steps to Success – Supported Internship. This programme is designed for learners with an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) ready to move into the world of work. You’ll gain valuable experience with an employer, build your confidence, and develop skills in communication, teamwork, and independence – all with the support of specialist Job Coaches and tutors. With real-world placements and tailored guidance, this course gives you the opportunity to turn ambition into achievement and move closer to paid employment and a brighter future.
Ready to take your next big step into the world of work? A Supported Internship is the perfect opportunity to build your independence, gain real skills and move towards paid employment – all with the right support in place.

If you're aged 16 to 24, have an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) and are keen to learn ""on the job"", this programme is designed for you. Most of your time will be spent in a real workplace, learning alongside staff, supported by a friendly Job Coach and college tutors. You’ll also have regular sessions back at college (or in an on-site classroom with certain internships) to keep building your confidence, English, maths, digital and employability skills.

What makes a Supported Internship exciting is the real experience: you’ll work with local employers, take on meaningful tasks, and grow the confidence and skills employers are looking for. From learning how to travel independently, to developing teamwork and communication, every day brings a new opportunity to shine.

The goal is simple: by the end of the internship, we want you ready to step into a job you’ll enjoy, with the skills and independence to succeed. Along the way, you’ll be supported to discover your strengths, prepare for interviews, and make sure you feel ready for life after college.

If you’re ambitious, motivated, and ready to show the world what you can do, a Supported Internship could be your perfect route into work – and into a brighter future.
Steps to Success – Supported Internship is delivered through a blend of structured work placement, classroom learning and skills development. In college (or a setting in the workplace), you’ll focus on improving employability, communication, independence, and confidence through tailored lessons and activities. Alongside this, you’ll complete a work placement with a local employer, supported by college staff and workplace mentors. This placement provides real experience in the world of work, helping you to develop practical skills and prepare for employment. The programme is highly personalised, ensuring each student receives the support needed to succeed.
This programme is all about preparing you for employment, with the aim of moving into paid work once you finish. It is a full-time internship based at ASDA in Colne. As an intern, you’ll be based in the workplace every day, developing real job skills with the support of a dedicated job coach and tutor. To apply, you’ll need to have a current Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and already have some experience of work placement.
Steps to Success – Supported Internship is assessed through continual review of your progress rather than formal exams. Your development is monitored in areas such as employability, communication, teamwork, and independence. College staff and workplace mentors work together to provide feedback during your placement and classroom sessions, helping you set personal targets and track achievements. Assessment focuses on the practical skills and confidence you gain in real work settings, ensuring you are ready to move into paid employment, an apprenticeship, volunteering or further training.
"Completing a Supported Internship is a positive step towards greater independence and building a meaningful future. This course is not just about gaining experience—it is about developing the confidence, skills, and resilience to succeed in the workplace and beyond. With tailored support from college staff and employers, you will be ready to take your next steps into areas such as retail, hospitality, administration, healthcare, or community services, where opportunities for growth are available.

The Supported Internship is designed to help you prepare for paid work, supported employment, or volunteering. Through real work placements, you will develop practical skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and time management, which employers value highly. Some students progress into apprenticeships or entry-level jobs, while others continue to volunteer, gaining valuable experience that can open the door to further opportunities.

Every learner’s journey is unique, and this programme provides the right balance of challenge and support to help you succeed. Whether your goal is to start work, give back through volunteering, or grow in confidence, the Supported Internship gives you the foundation to take your next steps towards a brighter and more independent future."
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