Student praises course which gave him hands on experience
A government-funded national college which supports young adults to gain valuable work experience has been praised by a former student.
Evan Hawthorne Slater (pictured above right) was given placements at our Children’s Hospital and other organisations in the area after joining the Supported Internship Programme at Choices College, which works with young adults who have additional needs and some, not all, with varying levels of autism.
He spent 12 weeks learning the ropes in the catering department at the Children’s Hospital. He then went on to gain a placement at University Hospitals Birmingham where he worked in IT technical support for a further 16 weeks.
The year-long course at the Birmingham-based college, funded by the Department of Education, builds the skills of young people who are aged between 16 and 24 who have learning difficulties, learning disabilities, which can include autism.
Evan, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Asperger’s Syndrome, dyslexia and dyspraxia, was also able to develop his job application skills and pass a GSCE equivalent in English during his time on the course.
He said: “It has really helped me in the world of work – from writing my CV, a job application and developing my interview skills, to being able to have that experience of working in a variety of jobs.
“Going forward when I apply for roles and have interviews, I can talk about what I’ve learned and how I’ve developed.”
Evan studied IT at Solihull College after finishing school aged 16. He discovered Choices College at a jobs fair where Mahesh Chauhan, Area Manager, told him about the 12-month course.
“It was too good an opportunity to miss,” added Evan. “I signed up to start after my IT course finished. My first role in catering at the Children’s Hospital involved food preparation, inventory management and sealing food for packing.
“I enjoyed the atmosphere and working with such a great team.”
In his next role, Evan was able to focus on IT. “I worked within technical support and my time there was further extended so I could expand on my experience,” said the 19-year-old who is keen to progress within the IT industry.
Evan has now completed the course and is focusing on passing his driving test so he can look further afield for work. “Without a doubt, joining Choices was the right decision. It opened up so many possibilities for me and will continue to do so as I start my career.”
Mahesh added: “When a placement provider opens their door and offers an opportunity for our interns, I know a wonderful journey will begin where pride, hope and confidence develops in the young person.
"In so doing, they'll always remember those that gave them a chance and to see them grow is a touching moment."
Lawrence Kelly, People Partnerships and Programme Manager, at our Trust said: “This programme provides real opportunities, showcasing the diverse work our colleagues deliver to support our patients and families.
“Mahesh and his colleague Rachel work hard to provide each student with a positive and enjoyable experience whilst coaching our colleagues on how an inclusive workplace benefits us all.
“It is a unique opportunity to develop skills on many levels and with the support of the team and the choices college coaches, nurture talents to inspire the next steps each individual takes
“We are very proud of what Evan has achieved and for the commitment and passion to develop and grow, it is very inspiring.
“The programme is actively seeking additional placements across the Trust and students from our local communities."