A new partnership between Coleg Cambria, DFN Project SEARCH and Ysbyty Wrexham Maelor will launch an internship programme this autumn to support young people with additional learning needs (ALN) into employment.

The one-year programme, starting in September at the hospital, aims to bridge the gap between education and work by giving students hands-on experience in a busy NHS environment.

Initially, six internship places will be available. Applications are open to young people who have an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) or an Individual Development Plan (IDP).

Jo Green, Curriculum Director for ILS at Coleg Cambria Northop, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our interns to gain real, hands-on experience in a hospital setting.

“Through our supported internship programme, interns can build confidence, develop essential employability skills and work towards greater independence.”

Offered through Coleg Cambria’s Independent Living Skills (ILS) department, the supported internship will enable participants to work in a variety of roles across the hospital. They will build practical skills, confidence and independence, supported by employability mentors and job coaches.

The initiative forms part of a wider drive to create more inclusive pathways into employment across North Wales, bringing together the strengths of education, healthcare and specialist supported employment partners.

By integrating learners into the workplace, the partnership aims to give them the experience and skills that employers value.

Tracey Amos, Operation Lead for Widening Access and Supported Internship at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “In collaboration with our partners, we are delighted to launch the new DFN Project SEARCH programme at Ysbyty Wrexham Maelor.

“Over the past decade, evidence from our existing sites has consistently demonstrated the programme’s positive impact, delivering meaningful benefits for both interns and staff.”

The initiative is expected to significantly improve career opportunities for young people with ALN while supporting local workforce needs. It aims to transform participants’ lives and promote more inclusive recruitment practices across the region.

For more information and to apply, visit https://cambria.ac.uk/our-courses/detail/?ucd=166226 or http://www.colegcambria.ac.uk/