Amber’s confidence grows

Meet Amber, a National Star student who is studying on the Supported Internship programme.

Amber has a sensory processing disorder and a learning disability. One of her key areas for development is to improve talking to unfamiliar people, as she finds this difficult and worries that people will not understand her. She has been focusing on learning softer employment-based skills while developing a sense of self. Now, she is mastering teamwork and gaining knowledge around the wider world of work. The Supported Internship aims to build on experiences to support ambition and aspirations.

Amber is completing two external placements, one at Richmond Retirement Village and the other at Portland Guest House, both in Cheltenham.

When Amber first started her placements, she was supported by her Job Coach, Mel Cowie. Three months on, Amber is now travelling independently on public transport and attending her placements without support.

Amber said: ‘I enjoy meeting new people and getting to know the staff.’

From day one at National Star, Amber aimed to try new things, especially those that were outside her comfort zone, and this year is no different. She has learnt to work with a variety of people and she has adapted well to how different people work.

Amber’s growing independence is a fantastic reflection of her hard work and the impact personalised support can have.

Job Coach, Mel Cowie, said: ‘I am so proud of how far Amber has come and her dedication to continue to put herself in situations that challenge her level of comfort.’