Supported internships with EDF Energy and Gloucester

In July 2014, seven National Star College learners completed a pilot internship programme at the Barnwood offices of EDF Energy. The students began their internships in January, and joined 1,600 employees to assist with electricity generation, training, customer service and business support. Job ‘buddies’ were allocated to each learner to provide support when it was needed and to ensure that each of them were able to experience a variety of workplace skills. EDF Energy is supporting National Star’s Steps into Work programme, which is designed to serve as an effective route into employment for people with disabilities by giving them the confidence, skills and experience they need. The company has been able to offer four of the students continuing employment opportunities at their Barnwood offices, while another student has been able to secure other employment locally.