HSDC is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Katie Williams, a Vocational Foundation Learning (VFL) student and Supported Internship participant, whose photography has been published in an advert in the Petersfield Post. Katie’s work – four professional-quality photographs – was featured in an advert promoting discounted tickets at the Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, where she recently completed a photography placement.
Throughout her time at the museum, Katie worked on a series of photography tasks within a professional working environment, interpreting creative briefs, working to deadlines and collaborating with staff. Her dedication and talent were evident, not only to her tutors and job coach, but to the museum team, who later selected four of her photographs for use in a public-facing newspaper advert.
This is a remarkable achievement for any young photographer, and a powerful demonstration of how tailored support, skilled job coaching and genuine industry experience come together to empower young people and elevate their skills.
Sarah Legg, Katie’s job coach, was incredibly proud of Katie’s success on the Supported Internship, and spoke passionately about how this course has helped many young people at HSDC:
“In the UK, only 5% of adults with a learning disability are in paid work. However, completion of a Supported Internship can see that figure jump to over 70%. Many interns join us too anxious to speak, with little or no work experience and low confidence. However, by the end of the year, students discover a huge boost in employability and life skills, plus secure employment! The Supported Internship proves to the young person that they can succeed and research shows that being in work improves self-esteem, reduces isolation and provides a real sense of purpose and belonging.”
Katie’s published photography is a tangible example of the Supported Internship delivering on its core purpose to prepare young people for work by providing them with real responsibility, real experience and real achievements.
HSDC is so proud of Katie and the progress she has made throughout her internship, with her accomplishment demonstrating what is possible when young people are empowered, included and given the space to flourish.