Alton College recently hosted a heartwarming and inspiring celebration at the College’s Martin Read Hall, recognising the remarkable achievements of its Supported Internship students. This event marked the end of a year of dedication, growth and resilience, with every single learner completing the minimum 165 hours required for their work placements.
Theo completed his work placement at Royal Surrey Hospital.
The Supported Internship programme is designed to equip students with little to no formal qualifications with the skills, confidence and experience required to enter the world of work. This makes it an accessible and inclusive pathway for students who may otherwise face barriers, such as complex learning needs, to employment.
This year’s celebration shone a spotlight on a number of extraordinary individual achievements. Among these was student Jack, who far exceeded expectations by completing an incredible 439 hours on placement – over double the requirement!
The true success of Alton College’s Supported Internship comes in the form of a wide network of employer partners. This year, placements were hosted by organisations including Hart District Council, Enchanted Nursery, Treloar’s, Alton Station Cafe, Goldfinch Bookstore, Royal Surrey Hospital, and even the Alton College Facilities Team!
Kim Hawkins served as the students’ Job Coach, and was extremely proud of their hard work and determination. Speaking at the event, Kim said:
“I feel extremely proud of each of my students this year. They have worked so hard. Listening to advise in their sessions with me and really implementing what they have learnt to their job-based roles. I wanted to organise this event to celebrate each and every one of this years’ cohort. I wish them all the best of luck with their next endeavour, and I know they will all go on to do amazing things!”
Kurt Hintz, HSDC’s Interim Principal and CEO, praised the students’ achievements, saying:
“I am so incredibly proud of every student here today. This celebration is one of determination, resilience, growth and achievement. Each and every one of you has stepped forward, embraced new challenges, developed workplace skills and shown what can be achieved with the right support and ambition! I also want to recognise and thank our staff, families and employer partners, for all that they do.”
Alton College’s Facilities Team hosted Ryan, a supported intern, in their team!
For many students, the Supported Internship is a genuinely life-changing opportunity to overcome barriers and realise their potential.
Theo, who undertook his placement as a porter at the Royal Surrey Hospital, shared how the programme has transformed his career prospects:
“Autism has affected my life for as long as I can remember, and has made it very difficult for me to get a job. I have loved my time on the placement, portering patients around the hospital and shadowing senior porters as well! It’s been fantastic to meet new people, support the NHS and build my skills too.”
Meanwhile, Tasha completed her placement at the Alton College Independence Hub, gaining experience in a highly supportive environment:
“It has been really fun, all of the students are great to work with, so I’m going to miss them all lots! The staff at the Independence Hub have also been really helpful, understanding and supportive.”
The Supported Internship programme at Alton College is built on the simple principle that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of background, prior attainment or additional needs.
As the celebrations concluded, there was a strong sense of pride not only in what the students had achieved so far, but in what lies ahead for them. Many are now progressing into paid employment or further training, equipped with transferable skills and knowledge that have set them up for successful careers.