What is a Supported Internship?

10 December 2025

Discover how a Supported Internship can give students with an EHCP the chance to build practical skills, confidence, and a pathway to paid employment.

Supported Internships could be a brilliant next step for learners with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

Rather than spending time solely in classrooms, a Supported Internship blends real work-experience with tailored learning, giving students a chance to build skills, confidence, and a pathway towards employment.

What does the course look like?

A Supported Internship via EKC Training is a full-time programme that combines substantial work placements with a personalised study programme. Students spend the majority of their week in a real work environment – matched to their skills, interests, and aspirations – completing meaningful tasks and gaining hands-on experience.

One day per week is completed at College, where students continue their education, building employability skills and working on core English and Maths knowledge.

Who is this qualification for?

This course is designed for young people who have an EHCP and can be a great progression route for learners who have previously studied within an Inclusive Learning department across one of our East Kent Colleges Group Colleges.

Additional support is built into the programme, including guidance from trained staff, realistic and supported work placements, and personalised learning plans.

What’s the goal — and why it matters

The ultimate aim of a Supported Internship is to help learners move into paid, sustainable employment. Not only will Job Coaches work to ensure learners are offered placements in the industry they’re interested in working in, but they also assist learners with creating CVs, making job applications and prepare for interviews.

This course is the perfect bridge between education and work, giving learners practical experience, building their confidence, and showing potential employers what they can do in a real work setting.