Last updated:
24th October 2025
Supported internships if you have an EHCP
Supported internships
A supported internship is a work-based study programme for young people who:
- are aged 16 to 24
- have an education, health and care plan (EHCP)
Supported internships usually last for one year. They include an unpaid work placement, and are designed for young people who want a paid job in the future, but need some extra help to build skills and confidence.
Wherever possible, the aim is to help you move into paid work after the supported internship.
How it works
You will be enrolled at a school or college and this will be named in your EHCP. Each week you will do:
- 1 to 2 days of learning at the school or college
- 3 to 4 days in an unpaid work placement
You will get:
- support from a qualified job coach
- skills to help you move into paid work when the internship ends
Who runs supported internships
They are run as a partnership between:
- employers - where you do your work placement
- schools and colleges - where you do your learning
- supported employment services - who provide support from job coaches
Apply for a supported internship
The following providers offer supported internships in the local area. Get in touch with them to find out more.
- Reading College
- Bracknell and Wokingham College
- Ways into Work
- Optalis
- Shaw Trust
- Newbury College
- The Henley College
- Farnborough College of Technology
- Berkshire College of Agriculture (for young people who already go to the college)
You can also contact the SEND Team to let us know you are interested. We can help you find a supported internship that suits you.
Build your skills first
If you are not quite ready for a supported internship, you could do a foundation course first to help you build the skills you need. Find out more about foundation courses at colleges.
Rachel's story
In this 2 minute video by Activate Learning, Rachel shares her story of a supported internship and then getting a job.
