Project SEARCH Session 2024/25
Greetings potential interns!
DFN Project SEARCH is an employability programme for young people (ages 16-24) with learning disabilities or who are on the autism spectrum.
Does the thought of working or applying to a job make you feel nervous? Are you having trouble finding the right job for you? Or would you simply like more experience and qualifications before you take that next step into work?
Whatever your current level of confidence and understanding, you will always be able to get something out of Project SEARCH, which aims to make your transition into the workplace as smooth as possible.
- watch the video and see what being a Project SEARCH Intern is like
- watch videos about the jobs Project SEARCH Interns are now doing
- watch videos of our Interns at work and to find out more about life as a Project SEARCH Intern
- What does DFN Project SEARCH involve?
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DFN Project SEARCH combines a North East Scotland College course that teaches employability skills and independence with a series of three part-time internships in a wide variety of jobs. Graduates will receive a City and Guilds Certificate in Employability Skills as well as additional training qualifications such as Microsoft Office Administration, Manual Handling, First Aid and Food Hygiene. In the workplace, Job Coaches are always happy to provide support to help you build professional skills, learn new tasks and ultimately, source employment in your local area.
Job Coaches will help you find the internships that best suit your skills and job interests. Each internship lasts approximately 10 weeks and allows you to practice writing CVs, cover letters and resignation letters, as well as attend your own practice job interviews. No matter which internships you choose, your day will always begin and end with some class based training where you can complete your City and Guilds coursework, learn new IT skills and talk to your Job Coaches and Lecturers about any questions or concerns you may have.
- Interested so far? Here’s how to learn more
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To find out more information, contact Jim Saunders on 07917 913335 or Andrew Thomson on 07786 336761 or contact us via email.
- How to apply
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Information about how to join Project SEARCH in September 2025 will be posted here in late 2024 – please keep checking back regularly for updates.
- Case study
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Find out more about a ...
- Intern quotes
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Do It! It’s a brilliant programme and you will learn a lot."
"It’s an “all you can work” buffet!"
"It’s a good environment to help you get a job."
"I’d recommend it as the staff understand my needs."
"I’d thoroughly recommend it for people who like the classroom and also like being in a workplace."
"It’s really good and helpful to get training to get a job."
"I have enjoyed it and learned a lot of new skills."
"It’s a fantastic place where you can come and get qualifications to build your confidence to get a future time job."
"It helps you come and experience new skills and get you into work. It’s a great way for employers to see how you work."
"It can help you get more qualifications and help with your confidence."
"It’s good for providing opportunities. It’s a perfect start for getting prepared for work."
- North East Scotland College academic calendar
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The term dates for the programme will follow the North East Scotland College academic calendar. The calendar is available on the North East Scotland College’s website.
Please note that the calendar may be subject to change.
Further information
- Information about our Privacy Notice and Data Sharing Agreement for Applicants