Nicola Thomson-Dewey, Megan Warren, Helen Mangham, Pauline Garnett (middle), Alice Mason, Zabrina Short, Leeann Newsome (left to right) accepting the Partner award.
Five college students have secured jobs and saw the college’s Inclusion and Wellbeing programme scoop an award thanks to their involvement in Project Search.
Project Search, a partnership between Barnsley College, Barnsley Council and Barnsley Hospital, has been instrumental in supporting young people with disabilities to gain work experience with the goal of securing paid employment.
The Inclusion and Wellbeing team at Barnsley College picked up the 2024 Partner Award at the hospital’s Heart Awards, which highlights excellent practice when working with partners.
Through the college’s Learning for Living and Work department and Project Search, the hospital has been able to offer placement opportunities for young people with physical and intellectual learning disabilities, helping them gain essential skills.
Four of the college’s current cohort of interns have transitioned into permanent employment with the NHS at Barnsley Hospital, and another intern has secured a job at an external company.
The Heart Awards were hosted by Barnsley Hospital Charity and NHS Barnsley Hospital with stiff competition for the Partner Award from two other worthy finalists including the Medical Imaging team and hospital staff.
Nicola Thomson-Dewey, Head of the Learning for Living and Work department at the college, said: “Winning the Partner award is a testament to the exceptional work being done by the Inclusion and Wellbeing team, Project Search and Barnsley College.
“The collaboration between Barnsley Hospital and Barnsley College to provide meaningful work opportunities for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is truly commendable.
“This recognition not only highlights the effectiveness of the program but also the positive impact it has on the students’ lives, empowering them to achieve their full potential, leading them to sustainable paid employment.
“Their achievements not only reflect their hard work but also the dedication of everyone involved in nurturing their potential. It’s amazing to witness such a positive outcome from collaborative efforts, I am beyond proud!”
Zabrina Short, Pauline Garnett, Leeann Newsome and Alice Mason (pictured above; left to right). Helen Mangham, Megan Warren and Nicola Thomson-Dewey (pictured below; left to right).
Last updated: 10th June 2024