Project SEARCH is a full-time one-year supported internship programme. It is a highly successful transition to work initiative for students aged 18-24 with a learning disablity and/or autism. It is targeted at students whose goal is competitive employment within the local community. Kirklees College has partnered with Kirklees Council, Dewsbury District Hospital, REAL Employment and C&K Careers to facilitate the licensed DFN Project SEARCH course.
The aim of Project SEARCH is to support you in your first steps towards gaining meaningful employment of 16 hours or more. Project SEARCH is five days a week, Monday – Friday. Each day you will spend time learning an employability curriculum, developing vital employability skills, such as communication, team work, self-advocacy and technology skills, as well as CV writing and interview preparation.
Throughout the year, you will have three work site rotations to help you build the skills required gain and maintain employment in your chosen sector. Rotations are matched to the your career aspirations, existing skills and focus on developing and personal development goals. Your tutor and Job Coach will work alongside you every day to support you in your development towards meaningful employment.
Upon successful completion of Project SEARCH, you will then continue to receive support through REAL Employment. Over 60% of students graduate with employment of 16 hours or more. Past students have gone on to work in Business Support roles within Kirklees College and Kirklees Council. As well as other students gaining employment as Care Assistants, Activities Co-ordinator, Bus Driver and much more!
