DFN Project SEARCH – King's Mill Hospital

Overview

Project SEARCH is a one-year internship programme for students with disabilities who have a goal to secure competitive employment in the community.

This programme is based at King’s Mill Hospital in Sutton-in-Ashfield. King’s Mill is the largest of the NHS Sherwood Forest Hospitals with an Emergency Department, as well as maternity services, inpatient facilities, clinics and therapy services. Students will participate in three job roles to explore a variety of career paths within the NHS such as working in hospitality, catering, business admin, domestic services, portering and maintenance.

Each student works with a team that includes their family, an instructor, job coaches and host business mentors to create an employment goal and to support the student during the transition from education to work.

During the course, training room activities are designed around: Team Building, Workplace Safety, Technology, Maintaining Employment, Self-Advocacy, Financial Literacy, Health and Wellness, and Preparing for Employment.

This course is delivered through the RARPA (Recognising and Recording Progress and Achievement) approach to ensure a high-quality learning experience. You can find out more about RARPA here.

Watch this video to see how supported interns have enjoyed their placement at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and discovering new skills.

Start dates and fees

Start Date	Code	Fee	Actions
Start Date	Code	Fee	Actions	16-18
Sep 2025	2684A1639	FREE	Apply

What will I study?

Internship training
Marketable job skills
Building relationships, confidence and independence.

Entry requirements

Learners with an EHCP
Age 18-24
Learners in their last year of college.

Study programmes - essential skills for employment

If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.

Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.

Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.

In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.