A supported internship programme is a work-based learning programme for young people aged 16 to 25 with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).
Starting every autumn term, young people will complete three work rotations throughout an academic year with support from a job coach, who will then support their transition into paid employment.
Job coaches and a qualified teacher will be on-site to meet the interns' educational and training needs. As a result, interns acquire competitive, marketable, and transferable skills to move into paid employment.
- Gain valuable skills tailored for future job opportunities, specifically designed to support your unique needs and abilities
- Foster self-confidence and establish meaningful connections with a supportive community of peers, mentors, and professionals
- Develop essential work and life skills to empower you to thrive personally and professionally
- Benefit from the guidance and assistance of experienced job coaches dedicated to helping you succeed
- Expand your social network and create lasting friendships while engaging in a supportive and inclusive environment
Aims and expected outcomes of the programme
- Transition into employment: one of the programme's key aims is to support young people's transition into employment once the programme concludes. DFN Project SEARCH has a track record of 60% of graduates securing paid jobs, demonstrating the program's successful outcomes.
- Empowering young people: the programme is designed to empower young individuals with SEND, providing them with choice and control over their future.
- Preparing for adulthood: the programme offers various opportunities that prepare participants for adult life and independent living.
Romeo’s Journey from Supported Internship to Paid Internship at ACCIONA
After graduating from our 2024/25 cohort, Romeo was offered a paid summer internship with ACCIONA, a global company committed to inclusion and diversity.
SEND Newsletter: My Supported Internship Journey by Lamar
We're proud to share a special edition of our SEND newsletter, written and designed by Lamar; one of our talented interns on the 2024/25 programme.
Harvey's journey from supported internship to employment
Harvey began his journey with us as one of the first interns in our 2023/24 Programme. Read about his experience in the programme and his journey from supported internship to employment.
Pathways to Employment event: Wednesday, 5 November 2025
Join our annual event is for young people aged 16–25 with SEND, their families, carers, and professionals.
Interested in joining a programme starting in September 2026?
Please review the eligibility criteria below before completing the expression of interest form.
Eligibility Criteria
To join the programme, the young person must:
- Be a resident of Haringey
- Be aged between 16 and 25, with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
- Be motivated to move into paid employment in the future
- Be able to travel independently or be willing to take part in travel training
How to Apply
If you meet the criteria above and would like to express interest, please complete the 2026 Supported Internship Expression of Interest Form.
Additional supported internship programmes
Explore supported internship programmes across Haringey
Discover additional supported internship programmes available in Haringey. This brochure provides information on different organisations offering internships across various fields, helping young people gain valuable work experience.
Explore supported internship programmes across London
Are you an employer interested in hosting a supported intern?
Are you a local employer in or near Haringey interested in offering meaningful work placements to young people with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND)?
We provide:
- Free recruitment and job matching
- Training and ongoing support
- Access to motivated local talent
- Opportunity to upskill existing staff through mentoring
Hosting a Supported Intern is a rewarding way to build a more inclusive workforce and support local talent.
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