National Supported Internship Day (27 March) raises awareness of supported internships as a proven pathway into paid work for young people with learning disabilities and/or autism.

National Supported Internship Day celebrates the achievements of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who are taking their first steps into the world of work through supported internships.

Supported internships are one year, work-based study programmes for 16 to 24 year-olds with an education, health and care plan (EHCP). These programmes help interns grow in confidence, develop independence and gain experience in meaningful job roles.

Finn's story

Finn joined the DFN Project SEARCH programme at Moorfields Eye Hospital in September 2023, bringing strong motivation and a clear talent for IT. After an initial skills assessment, the team identified IT as his key strength, shaping the internships that followed.

Finn worked with Patient Administration System (PAS) and National Care Records Service (NCRS) systems at Moorfields to update patient information and present data in Excel. He also supported a departmental event, strengthening his organisation, attention to detail and understanding of GDPR and data protection.

Finn continued developing his IT skills while gaining valuable experience in communication and customer service. He supported clinics independently, interacted with patients and consistently received positive feedback. His confidence grew significantly during this placement.

Finn then joined Schroders’ Client Insights Unit, where he worked on data hierarchy clean-ups, created PowerPoint learning decks and took part in daily stand-up meetings. His strong work ethic and passion for IT quickly stood out.

Schroders offered him opportunities to shadow other teams, including cyber security, and introduced him to SQL, a specialised programming language, to support small reporting tasks. A structured support system helped Finn to settle in, build relationships and explore his growing interest in cyber security.

With support from his Kaleidoscope job coach, Finn prepared thoroughly for an interview with Schroders’ cyber security manager. He researched cyber security topics, presented his findings and demonstrated how his skills and experience aligned with the role. Finn's enthusiasm and professionalism made a strong impression.

In September 2024, Finn began his Level 4 Cyber Security Technologist apprenticeship with Schroders. He now works in a hybrid role, supported by Kaleidoscope’s follow-on coaching team, who assist with onboarding, workload management, confidence building and apprenticeship development.

Finn’s journey reflects his strength. His achievements, from developing core workplace skills to securing an apprenticeship in his chosen field, are a testament to his dedication and the collaborative support around him.

• For more information about supported internships for yourself or for someone you know, please contact [email protected] or visit the supported internships web page