Before joining City College Plymouth, Josh studied at Longcause Community Special School, where he enjoyed playing games and listening to music in his spare time. Keen to develop his independence and explore new career opportunities, he enrolled on the WorkStart course at the College, which introduced him to the world of work through placements at ScrapStore and Moments Café.
Josh said, “ScrapStore was my favourite. Most of my tasks involved sorting things into bags and organising stock, and I liked the quiet space.”
While WorkStart helped him get used to a working environment, Josh knew he wanted to develop his skills further. With a growing interest in computing and IT, he decided to take on a Supported Internship in the College’s IT and Computing department to gain more hands-on experience.
With the support of tutors and staff members, Josh settled into his internship and soon began working on real projects that helped build his confidence and skills. One of his biggest achievements was learning how to use a 3D printer, creating keyrings and promotional materials for different College initiatives. Seeing his work showcased on Student Central, the College’s intranet portal, was a huge confidence boost.
Josh explained, “Getting used to the 3D printer was a great experience. I’ve also enjoyed talking to new people and building my confidence.”
Josh also became involved in the Wellbeing Trail, where he helped design and produce affirmation ducks, alongside a promotional poster he created in Canva. These items are going to be sold to raise money for the department’s residential trip, giving Josh a real sense of accomplishment in knowing his work had a meaningful impact.
The growth Josh has experienced since starting his internship has been remarkable. When he first joined the College, he wasn’t confident in his digital skills. However, with guidance and hands-on experience, he has mastered new software and even learned how to build and manage a Google Site – a skill he never imagined himself using before.
Josh said, “When I first joined the College, I didn’t know how to build a website. Now, I feel confident working on a Google Site and know I can use that skill in the future.”
Josh’s journey at City College Plymouth is far from over. After completing his College internship, he will continue onto a second external supported internship before planning to apply for an IT course to continue developing his knowledge and skills before stepping into the world of work.
Josh said, “I’d love to do something with computers in the future. I’m looking forward to enrolling on an IT course, and then thinking about getting a job later on.”
Josh’s story is just one example of how a Supported Internship can help students transition from education into the workplace, develop new skills, and grow in confidence. If you’d like to find out more, visit www.cityplym.info/SkillsDevelopment.
