Friday 27 March marks National Supported Internship Day, a nationwide celebration of the life-changing impact that supported internships have in opening doors to meaningful employment. At West Thames College, the day is a proud moment to reflect on over a decade of empowering young people to build skills, confidence, and successful careers.
Since launching its very first supported internship in 2012 in partnership with GSK, the college has been at the forefront of inclusive employment pathways. GSK made history as the first private business in the UK to host a supported internship at its global headquarters in Brentford, creating a model that has since inspired many others. Today, the partnership continues to thrive, with interns gaining valuable experience at GSK’s central London base as they complete their final term.
The college has also worked closely with the London Borough of Hounslow since 2015 to deliver Project SEARCH supported internships. We put the spotlight on two current interns: Mimi, who is contributing as a support assistant within Supported Learning, and Amanpreet, who is developing retail skills in the college’s Tesco-branded stationery shop. Their journeys highlight the ambition and potential unlocked through these programmes.
Mimi, who is currently completing her supported internship through Project SEARCH at West Thames College, has shown exceptional dedication in her role as a support assistant within Supported Learning. A former Supported Learning Student of the Year (2024), Mimi has embraced the transition into the workplace, developing valuable skills while supporting students with additional needs, including those with autism.
She takes pride in creating a positive learning environment, helping students stay focused and engaged, and building strong relationships with both staff and peers.
Reflecting on her journey, Mimi said: “I’ve learned so many skills since starting Project SEARCH, and it’s been the best feeling for me. I really enjoy working with new students and staff, and I’m proud that I’m doing my best and making my family proud.”
Amanpreet is also thriving on his supported internship through Project SEARCH at West Thames College, where she is gaining valuable retail and workplace experience. Since starting the programme in September, she has built confidence and developed a wide range of practical skills, including working with money and completing project-based tasks. Amanpreet particularly enjoys the hands-on nature of his role and the opportunity to learn new tools such as Canva, which he has used to complete assigned projects.
Reflecting on her progress, she said: “Project SEARCH has given me loads of confidence and helped me gain new skills. I’m really proud of using Canva for the first time and all the projects I’ve been working on.”
West Thames College’s approach is rooted in its core values—Integrity, Excellence, Equality, and Respect—ensuring that learners not only gain professional skills but also grow in confidence and independence. Many former interns have progressed into paid employment, including roles within the college itself, demonstrating the long-term success of the programme.
The college continues to expand its opportunities through an exciting partnership with the Sheraton Skyline London Heathrow Hotel. Interns on this programme rotate across a wide range of hospitality roles, from food and beverage and kitchen operations to front office, engineering, and even the on-site Starbucks outlet. These real-world experiences are designed to prepare learners for careers in a dynamic and growing industry.
Supported internships represent a crucial transition from education into employment, acting as the final stage of a learner’s educational journey with a clear focus on securing paid work. For those who are not yet ready to take that step, the college’s Supported Learning provision offers a strong foundation. Programmes such as Career Kickstart help learners build employability skills, gain work experience, and prepare for progression into internships.
In addition, the college’s Independence Hub plays a vital role in supporting learners with additional needs. It provides a safe and structured environment where students can develop life skills, independence, and confidence—key building blocks for future employment and community participation.
Mitsie Butler, Curriculum Co-ordinator for Supported Learning at West Thames College, emphasised the importance of these opportunities:
“National Supported Internship Day is a powerful reminder of the difference these programmes make. At West Thames College, we see every day how supported internships transform lives—helping young people gain confidence, develop real workplace skills, and move into meaningful employment. We are incredibly proud of our learners and the partnerships that make this possible.”
This National Supported Internship Day, everyone is encouraged to get involved by wearing orange on 27 March to raise awareness of inclusive employment opportunities and show support for young people taking these important steps into the world of work.
Those interested in joining a programme at West Thames College can apply here:
APPLY NOW.
The team will be in touch to guide applicants through the next steps.
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