Congratulations to the young people who have just completed their year-long Supported Internships in Bedford Borough.
Sophie Plummer, Jonah Fielden, Ewan Hartup and Cosmo Peduto took part in the programme, which is run by Bedford Borough Council and Bedford College in partnership with various employers who support with providing work placements.
The graduation ceremony took place at The Bedford Sixth Form on Bromham Road. After receiving certificates from Mayor of Bedford Tom Wootton and the Council’s Service Director for Education, SEND & Schools Chris Morris, they enjoyed an afternoon tea with their families.
Mayor Tom said; “It’s always a special moment to see our Supported Interns complete this journey.
“They have grown not just in their skills but in confidence and maturity. They deserve so much credit and should be so proud of themselves.
“I look forward to seeing where they go next!”
Chris Morris added; “All of our interns have been through their own journey, and they have all shown how special each of them is. Jonah has shown himself as a real asset wherever he has gone - friendly, approachable, and always keen to try new things. He even took a chance on joining in with children's Rhyme Time at the Library, something no other intern had been brave enough to do before him
“Ewan began working at Munch & Mocha, and within just an hour of his first day he was already serving customers and operating the till independently before going on to help train other staff on the till system himself.
“Cosmo’s placement at Robinson Pools & Fitness saw him grow into someone confidently running gym safety checks, creating social media content, and even designing posters for their events.
“And Sophie, who now has paid employment following her internship, has also stood up and spoken publicly at both our Supported Internship Information Event and Bedford College's Employer Event.”
The supported internships are open to young people aged 18-24, who have autism and/or learning disabilities and an EHCP, and are keen to enter the workforce.
Each internship should contribute to the long-term career goals of the young person and match their capabilities. Alongside their time with the employer, supported interns complete sessions on employability and other skills delivered by Bedford College colleagues. Support is tailored to each intern with creating CVs, Interview techniques and gaining and maintaining employment.
You can read more at https://localoffer.bedford.gov.uk/kb5/bedford/directory/service.page?id=dFg1xQNy88I&localofferchannel=0.