Students from Trafford and Stockport College Group have been thriving on their Supported Internship and Pre-Supported Internship programmes, gaining invaluable work experience, growing in confidence, and making a real impact in their placements.
The Supported Internship Programme is designed for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), providing tailored support as they gain hands-on experience in the workplace. Alongside their placements, students develop vital skills such as travel training, communication, and teamwork, all with the goal of moving closer to sustained employment and independent living.
Two students who have stood out are Ronan Anker and Amy Lin, who have each made remarkable progress through their respective internship journeys.
From quiet to confident: Amy’s journey
Amy Lin, a student on the Pre-Supported Internship at Trafford College’s Altrincham campus, has completed three successful placements this year, in the college canteen, the Print Room, and currently at Age UK in Altrincham.
When Amy started the programme, she was quiet and hesitant. But with the support of job coaches, tutors, and workplace mentors, Amy has flourished. She now confidently travels independently using the Bee Network App and even supports fellow students with journey planning.
Staff at her placements have praised Amy for her work ethic and transformation. Jo Bowen from the college canteen described her as ‘a joy to work with’, while Sharon Berkeley from Age UK said Amy ‘progressed to using the till and reconciling stationery orders’ and has developed her communication skills along the way.
Employment Officer Lyndsey Cairns added: “Amy has completely transformed from the student I met in August. She should be extremely proud of the progress she has made.”
A superstar in the making: Ronan’s story
Ronan Anker has shown outstanding personal growth during his Supported Internship. His first placement at Trafford Town Hall in the Safeguarding team helped him build admin skills, improve attention to detail, and develop strong teamwork.
Ronan then moved on to a placement at Altrincham FC, where he now supports community sports sessions for children and vulnerable adults. He has taken a lead role in warm-ups, given feedback to young participants, and demonstrated exceptional leadership.
He even found the confidence to speak in front of Trafford councillors about his internship experience, amazing progress from the shy student who started the programme. Ronan now travels independently to college and placements, always immaculately presented and ready to give his best.
A programme that changes lives
Katie Goodwin, Assistant Principal for Student Support, Safeguarding & Inclusion, said: “Our Supported Internship programmes are all about unlocking potential and preparation for adulthood. We see students arrive unsure of themselves and leave as confident young adults ready to take on the world of work. Amy and Ronan are shining examples of what’s possible when the right support is in place. We’re incredibly proud of all our students and the journeys they’ve made this year.”
Trafford and Stockport College Group celebrates the progress of all students on its Supported Internship and Pre-Supported Internship pathways and thank our employer and community partners who have supported them every step of the way.
