Published on Thursday 24 July 2025
Hard work, fun, and growing confidence are just some of the words used by students to describe their experiences on Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s Supported Internship Programme, which helps young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) take their first steps into the world of work.
BCP Council’s Supported Internship Programme, rated excellent by the British Association for Supported Employment, is an opportunity for local young people aged 18-25 with an agreed Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) to access high quality education, careers advice and real-world paid employment.
Intern Jon Pestell, 20, said: “I did this internship to get some experience of working and learning skills for paid employment.
“My favourite rotation was in Marketing and Communications because I got to do the things I love like filming and editing and creating content for the weekly newsletter.
“I’m hoping to do an apprenticeship next so I can learn more important skills and hopefully work in something like marketing, administration or with computers.”
The programme runs for the full academic year (September-July) and includes hands-on work placements, classroom-based learning, and one-to-one job coaching to ensure each intern is supported to thrive.
Eight interns took part in this year’s programme, gaining experience in a range of services including facilities, fleet operations, tourism, social care and parks and gardens, as well as attending tutor-led sessions at BCP Civic Centre where they developed their classroom learning and transferable skills.
Helen Lewis, Project Lead for the Supported Internship Programme, said: “‘It’s an absolute joy to be able to offer this programme and see our interns develop their independence, confidence and sense of purpose as the course progresses.
“The programme has been running for a few years now and our past interns describe it as life-changing because they can use the skills they learn to get paid work and build their relationships and social skills because of higher personal confidence and self-worth.
“Throughout the course, we make sure that each young person gains experience within departments across the Council, and the skills and education we provide means they are regularly cited as valuable colleagues who can contribute meaningfully.”
The internship is delivered in partnership with South West Regional Assessment Centre (SWRAC) for classroom learning, and Discovery providing supported job coaching.
Councillor Richard Burton, Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People, Education and Skills at BCP Council, said: “We are proud to be able to offer a vital stepping stone for young people with SEND to progress into sustainable employment.
“The Supported Internship Programme helps students develop key skills, grow in confidence, and gain valuable work experience that can lead to long-term employment,
“With the right support, our interns are empowered to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their local communities.”
Applications are now open for the 2025/6 Supported Internship.
To find out more about the programme, personal visits, group drop-in sessions or details of information events, contact Helen Lewis, Project Lead at supportedinternships@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or visit BCP Council Supported Internships here.