Supported Internships

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Supported Internships are a practical way to develop your skills at our college and with our employment partners. Tailored for young people aged 16-25 with an EHCP who need extra support to start a job.

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Supported Internships with EMA and our employment partners offer a practical way to build skills both at college and in the workplace. They are designed for young people aged 16+ with an EHCP who need additional support to prepare for employment.

We work with established employers to provide meaningful placements where you can use your existing skills, develop new ones, and explore potential career paths.

Each internship includes support from a dedicated job coach, who will help with training, build your confidence, and support you in finding a role that matches your strengths and career goals.

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What is a Supported Internship?

  • Study Programme for Young People (16yrs+) with an EHCP
  • Tailored for those who need extra support to start a job
  • Work placements within local community
  • Full-Time Courses (3 days a week)
  • English & Maths units covered as part of SETPD
  • Vocational Qualifications
  • Travel training and development of valuable workplace skills
  • Course requirements: Entry 3-Level 2 and above

Benefits of Supported Internships

  • Practical experience in the working world
  • Development of valuable workplace skills
  • Opportunity to earn qualifications
  • Potential to secure a paid job in their desired industry

Internship Offerings

  • Internships complement a diverse range of choices available to students
  • Combines education and job coaching
  • Roles include:
  • Catering and hospitality
  • Horticulture
  • Retail
  • Customer service
  • Other placements within relevant industries

EMA’s proven record

  • Successful history of helping students achieve their goals
  • Developing personal confidence, communication, and life skills
  • Graduates have moved into paid work within their communities

“EMA’s Supported Internship programme has proved invaluable for my son. He has progressed enormously, beyond what many people thought might be possible. Thanks to everyone at EMA for supporting him – and for this initiative.” – Mike, parent

EMA & Greene King Supported Internships

We’ve partnered with established national employer, and the UK’s leading pub company and brewer Greene King, to offer incredible opportunities to young people looking to kick start their career.

EMA supported internships provide 16-24 year olds with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) the opportunity to develop employment and life skills as they enter the hospitality industry. We are collaborating with Greene King locations in Dorset and the surrounding counties, all working together to help equip you with the skills and knowledge for the work you want.

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EMA and Dorset County Hospital Supported Internships

Our Supported Internship partnership with Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, is part of our ongoing commitment to offering diverse and meaningful career pathways for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Each Supported Internship includes a dedicated job coach who works closely with the young person to provide tailored training, build confidence, and help them find a role that suits their goals and aspirations.

EMA & DCA Supported Internships

Dorset Community Action (DCA) is a charity focused on enriching communities through practical projects, supporting young people in training and skills development, and promoting positive well-being.

GreenCare is a garden maintenance service operated by DCA and our Supported Internship placements are perfect for those looking to explore training in the horticulture industry.

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