About Supported Internships

A Supported Internship is a work‑based study programme for young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). It helps you build the skills, confidence and experience you need to move into paid work.

Most of your learning takes place in a real job role, shaped around your strengths and interests.

Registering your interest in joining a supported internship 

If you’re interested in joining a Supported Internship programme, we’d love to hear from you.

Supported Internships give young people the chance to:

  • take part in a meaningful work placement

  • learn real skills for a job

  • build confidence and independence

  • get tailored support from a job coach

Register your interest 

When you register your interest, you help us understand your goals so we can start planning the right pathway for you.
A member of the Supported Internship Team will contact you within 10 days to explain next steps and answer any questions.

Register your interest in joining a supported internship

To find out how we use your information see our privacy notice (opens in a new window).

Who Supported Internships are for

Supported Internships are for young people who want to work and learn best by doing practical tasks. Work experience is ideal, prior to starting a Supported Internship. The programme helps you learn at your own pace and focuses on your potential.

What you will do on the programme

You will spend most of your week in a workplace, learning how to do a job and becoming part of a team. You will gradually build up independence as you learn new tasks and routines. Depending on your needs, you may also continue with English, Maths, work preparation or travel training to help you progress.

How support works

This is one of the only sections that really benefits from bullet points — because it's about how support is delivered.

You will be supported by a trained job coach who:

  • helps you learn tasks step by step
  • breaks activities into manageable parts
  • supports you closely at first, then reduces help as you grow in confidence
  • works with your employer and education provider to plan your progress

Your education provider will also stay in touch with you and the employer to monitor how things are going.

What happens afterwards

The aim of a Supported Internship is for you to move into paid employment. When you are ready, you will receive support to apply for jobs, prepare for interviews and understand what different workplaces expect. Your job coach and education provider will guide you to think about your next steps and the types of roles that suit your strengths. 

Why Supported Internships help

Supported Internships are successful because they teach you skills in the place where you will use them. You learn through real experience rather than only in a classroom, which helps you understand what you enjoy, what you’re good at and where you want to go next. Many young people find this hands‑on approach builds their confidence and opens the door to paid work.

Real life experiences

These videos reflect the experience of six interns sharing their experience of the Supported Internship Programme.  

How Siemens has found new talent through Supported Internships

Who can apply

You must be aged between 16 - 24 years old and have a current Educational Health Care Plan. There are no formal entry requirements for a Supported Internship. Work experience is helpful, but not essential you just need to want a job. 

Where can I do my Supported Internship

  • Cheshire College
  • Park Lane School
  • The Springboard Project
  • Petty Pool
  • Safe Opportunities
  • Reaseheath College
  • Adelaide School and Adelaide Heath (from September 2026)

Guidance from the  Department of Education

Further information 

You can contact the team for more information on Supported Internships. 

Email: supportedemployment@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Telephone: 07789 654349

Page last reviewed: 02 December 2025