ASPIRATIONS DONCASTER
What we provide
At Aspirations Doncaster, we specialize exclusively in supported internships, guiding young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) as they transition from education into the workforce. Our dedicated team is here to ensure young adults are armed with everything they need to make their aspirations a reality.
What is a supported internship?
A supported internship is a tailored education programme designed to help young adults develop the skills and confidence needed to successfully transition from education to employment. It provides hands-on experience in a real workplace setting, ensuring students learn in an environment that prepares them for the demands of the workforce. At Aspirations Doncaster, all our supported internship take place onsite at the employer's place of business, five days a week.
This unique approach allows students to become fully integrated into the workplace, gaining valuable insight and practical experience.​Typically lasting one academic year, the primary goal of the programme is to support young adults in securing paid employment upon completion. While supported internships are unpaid, students remain in full time education throughout their enrolment, combining workplace experience with essential learning and development
WHAT SKILLS WILL BE TAUGHT?
Supported internships focus on equipping young adults with essential life and employability skills, empowering them not only to secure paid employment but also to thrive in their chosen careers. Our workshops prioritize real-world skills, including:
• CV writing • Interview techniques • Time management • Resolving workplace conflict • Independent travel • Financial literacy • Team building and relationship skills • Handling difficult conversations
These skills are taught during daily on-site workshops, where students learn practical strategies before heading onto the shop floor to put their new knowledge into practice. For the rest of the day, students work in their assigned roles, supported by a dedicated job coach. The job coach provides tailored guidance, encouragement, and support to meet each individual’s unique needs, ensuring they gain confidence and grow in their role.
WHAT IS A JOB COACH?
Every student enrolled in our program is assigned a dedicated job coach who works alongside them as they carry out the tasks required by their role. A job coach provides personalized support, helping students navigate the daily challenges and triumphs of the workplace. As the student’s capabilities, understanding, and confidence grow, the job coach gradually reduces their level of support, fostering independence and self-reliance by the end of the program.
Meet Our Team
Kimberley Patterson
Director
With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Kim brings unparalleled experience in financial education and budget management. Her impressive track record includes managing multi-million pound contracts, whilst fostering strategic client and partner relationships, and driving growth through business development initiatives.
Paula Murray
Director
With over 30 years experience as a qualified teacher, including 14 years as a head teacher, Paula is an accomplished leader in education and child development. Paula has served as CEO of a prominent charity, managing a team of qualified counsellors. A certified trainer, Paula's depth of expertise and passion for empowering others make her a highly respected professional in her field
Paul Patterson
Senior Job Coach
With over 30 years of experience in both technology and construction sectors, as well as running his own successful consultancy business helping spin-out companies in UK universities grow their businesses. Providing sales, marketing and business coaching