Celebrating the inspiring progression of ILS learners at Coleg Gwent

In celebration of National Supported Internship Day, Coleg Gwent is proud to share the inspiring journey of Dion, a former ILS learner who has successfully gained employment following a supported internship at Nevill Hall Hospital. 

The internship programme is overseen by Coleg Gwent and supported by stakeholders in the wider local Care as Currency Partnership – a partnership of local health and social care providers and educators that aims to encourage more students from South Wales to pursue roles in health and social care. 

Dion, 23, joined Coleg Gwent in 2017, where he studied a yearlong course in Independent Living Skills. Following the course, he progressed on to the ILS Vocational Studies (Pathway 3) Level Entry 3 where he studied a range of practical subjects, such as cookery, horticulture, health and leisure, and ICT. 

With a keen interest in seeking a work placement, Dion progressed once again and joined the ILS Preparation for Supported Internship course to help overcome barriers to work. After successful completion of the course, Dion was offered a supported internship programme at Nevill Hall Hospital where he worked closely with the health records department, specialising in digitising NHS records.  

Coleg Gwent learners on the supported internship programme gain hands-on experience in various hospital roles, including portering, cleaning, ward hosting, and admin support. 

This is the fourth year Nevill Hall Hospital has been involved in the scheme, with both hospital staff and learners benefiting from the partnership. This academic year there are currently 11 Coleg Gwent interns on placement. 

After successfully completing his internship, Dion secured an 18-month admin apprenticeship with the department, which he is due to complete in May. More recently, Dion was offered and accepted a permanent role.  

Dion said: ” I love the work I am doing. Before, I was quite nervous and didn’t want to work in a hospital. Now I feel confident in my role and don’t want to leave. Transitioning from a student to apprentice has been smooth. I love learning about the new tasks. 

“This programme has helped me explore career options and gain confidence in the workplace. At first, it seemed daunting, but I’ve now developed so many new skills. 

In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Dion has taken on the role of mentoring another Coleg Gwent ILS learner. 

He said: “I understand how daunting it feels coming in and being new, so I’ve been mentoring another learner and helping him ease into his role.” 

Rachel Edwards, the Assistant Manager at Nevill Hall Hospital, highlights the positive impact Dion has had on the team: “We’ve learnt so much from each other, and it brings so many positives. Having Dion here has made us think about the way we teach and how we can be more inclusive. He’s been exceptional and he’s part of the health records family now.” 

Gary Handley, Assistant Principle at Coleg Gwent, said: “Dion’s journey is a shining example of what our ILS learners can achieve with the right support and opportunities. Through carefully tailored opportunities such as enhanced placements, supported internships, and community-based work, we are helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in real-world settings. We are incredibly proud of Dion’s accomplishments and the positive impact he has made on his peers and colleagues.” 

To learn more about how Coleg Gwent supports learners with additional needs and opens doors to exciting career opportunities, visit our website.