Burnley College is celebrating a triple win for its Supported Internships.
DFN Project Search, which offers internships for high needs learners picked up the accolades at the charities’ annual national conference held at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.
From thousands of young interns across the country, Burnley College learner Jason Cherry won the Special Award for Young Advocate of the Year for his work with supporting young people with hearing difficulties.
His employer, Advocacy Focus in Accrington is so impressed with him that they are now putting him through training to become a Trainee Advocate.
Jason said:
“My journey with Project SEARCH has been a great adventure. I am very proud of the working man that I have become, and I never thought I would be able to do this. I am so happy to win this award.”
– Jason Cherry, DFN Project Search Intern
Burnley College were named as winners of the Special Award for Data Impact. This accolade recognises their work with Project Search partners Calico to use data to drive the curriculum and experience for their interns.
The Outcomes Award was also collected by Burnley College, for a success rate of over 80%. The award recognises the number of learners who have taken on a permanent job of 16 hours or more per week following their internship. Burnley College’s overall figure of those in all roles is an impressive 100%.
Additional Learning Support Manager at Burnley College Georgina Davies said it was fantastic evening to celebrate success:
“I am so proud of Jason and the Project Search team at Burnley College and Calico. The positive impact that this programme has on the lives of young people with learning difficulties and autism is extraordinary.”
Burnley College partner with Calico to offer the one-year internships, assisting young people with high level needs into careers, benefiting both the learner and their employer.– Georgina Davies, Additional Learning Support Manager, Burnley College
DFN Project Search works with partner businesses, offering them expert advice and support to ensure successful placements for those with complex needs, enabling them to maintain successful careers.
During their internship, young people usually complete three placements, in roles dependant on their skills and interests.
DFN Project Search at Burnley College has been running for five years and has supported over 30 young people into job roles and careers.
If you would like more information on the work of DFN Project Search, contact the Tutor, Sarah Rattigan on [email protected].
