Celebrating Supported Internships at Warrington & Vale Royal College

On Thursday 11th June, Warrington & Vale Royal College proudly hosted its annual Supported Internship Celebration Evening, a special event dedicated to showcasing the success, growth, and achievements of its incredible Supported Interns.

Supported Internships are designed for young people aged 17–24, typically with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), who are ready to take the next step towards paid employment. The programme offers a structured and supportive route into the workplace, combining hands-on work placements with personalised, on-the-job support to help students develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to succeed.

The celebration event is an opportunity to reflect on the significant progress made by interns throughout the year. College representatives spoke passionately about the interns’ journeys, highlighting their development and growing independence. In front of an audience of proud family members and key college staff members, the interns were each recognised as valued members of their workplace teams. They were all praised for their commitment, strong work ethic, and positive contributions.

Many of the interns began their placement with low confidence but have since developed into self-assured individuals, better equipped for the world of work. Several interns have successfully secured employment with their host organisations, underlining the impact of the programme.

Amanda and Matthew proud Supported Intern

Praise from the Vice Principal

Amanda MacKinnon, Vice Principal: Curriculum & Quality, delivered an emotional address following the presentation of awards. She said: “This programme means so much to all of us, as well as the interns. We see first-hand the benefits of these placements and how they truly help to realise potential.”

Addressing the interns directly, Amanda continued: “We are incredibly proud of you, and you should be so proud of yourselves. You have worked tremendously hard this year, and now, the world really is your oyster with the skills you have developed.”

Sara Shaw, Supported Internship Programme Leader, also commended the interns and took the opportunity to thank employer partners for their ongoing support in providing meaningful placement opportunities. Warrington & Vale Royal College extends its sincere thanks to the organisations who host a Supported Intern and help to shape their learning experiences. These include Warrington Hospital, Warrington Disability Partnership, Mamars Artisan Bakery, WEEE Charity, Toby Carvery, and more.

The celebration event served as a powerful reflection of the college’s ethos: Realising Potential, Transforming Lives. The college remains committed to supporting individuals of all ages into meaningful employment, with Supported Internships exemplifying this mission in action.

A huge congratulations to all of this year’s Supported Interns!

Click here to learn more about Supported Internships