Nelson and Colne College Group (NCCG) had the honour of welcoming Mrs Amanda Parker JP, the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, to witness the progress of supported internship students currently on placement at ASDA Colne.
Working with DFN Project search, a transition to work programme designed to help young adults with a learning disability or autism or both into work, Nelson and Colne College Group have built a partnership to get 7 young adults into the workplace starting at ASDA in Colne.
The visit highlighted the achievements of the learners as they shared their experiences, provided insight into their roles, and showcased the workplace skills they have developed. The initiative, designed to equip students with practical tools and experiences required to thrive in employment, was met with enthusiasm and pride by both students and staff.
Mrs Amanda Parker JP expressed her admiration, stating:
“It was a pleasure to meet the young people on the internship at ASDA today. Every one of them was enthusiastic and clearly loving the opportunity that ASDA, with Project Search, is providing for them to develop workplace skills. The relationships between interns and staff were friendly, respectful, and supportive, allowing the students to thrive. I was very impressed by their hard work, communication, and organisation.”
This visit not only served as a platform for the learners to demonstrate their development but also emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in creating meaningful opportunities for young people.
Kyle, a student taking part in the supported internship programme, explained: “I told her about my rotation and that I enjoy the picking, and that Ash and Tom are helping us in class to help me get a job.”
The Supported Internship Programme exemplifies how collaboration between educational institutions and employers can foster success for young people with additional needs. By placing students in real workplace settings, the programme provides them with not only hands-on experience but also the opportunity to build transferable skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Ash Lambert-Martin, Supported Internship Employability Trainer at Nelson and Colne College, commented: “It was truly remarkable that HM Lord Lieutenant visited the interns on site. As a prominent figure in Lancashire, her presence allowed her to witness firsthand the significant impact of these programmes. Her support will undoubtedly help raise further awareness and provide invaluable exposure for supported internships and DFN Project Search.”
For further information about the supported internship programmes at Nelson and Colne College Group, please contact a.lambert-martin@nelsongroup.ac.uk
