Young people on Supported Internship Programme meet Sandwell councillor
The Westminster School and The Westminster Specialist College were delighted to welcome Councillor Jalal Uddin, Sandwell Council Cabinet Member, to Asda Oldbury to meet young people participating in the Supported Internship Programme.
During the visit, Councillor Uddin met directly with interns, job coaches and Asda colleagues to hear first-hand about the students’ lived experiences on the programme. Interns spoke about developing confidence, building workplace skills and progressing towards sustainable paid employment.
The Supported Internship Programme, delivered through a strong partnership between The Westminster School, The Westminster Specialist College, Asda Oldbury and DFN Project SEARCH, provides structured workplace placements alongside tailored educational support. The programme equips young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with the skills, knowledge and experience required to transition successfully into employment.
Oliver Flowers, Executive Headteacher of The Westminster School and The Westminster Specialist College, said: “We are incredibly proud of our young people and the way they represent themselves in the workplace. The visit showcased what is possible when education and business work together with a shared commitment to inclusion. These internships are truly life-changing and are creating brighter futures for young people across Sandwell.”
Councillor Uddin praised the professionalism and determination of the interns and recognised the importance of inclusive employment pathways within the borough.
The programme at ASDA Oldbury has demonstrated excellent employment outcomes, with interns developing transferable skills, independence and resilience. It reflects Sandwell Council’s wider commitment to inclusive growth, reducing inequality and supporting residents into sustainable employment.
Supported Internships are designed as a bridge between education and employment, ensuring that young people with SEND are equipped for adulthood and meaningful participation in the workforce.
The Westminster School and its partners remain committed to expanding high-quality Supported Internship opportunities across Sandwell and the wider West Midlands, ensuring that inclusion, aspiration and opportunity remain at the heart of local workforce development.
