The interns were joined by family, friends, job coaches and staff from West London College, Ealing Council, Ealing Mencap and UWL, along with representatives from their work placements. Another special guest was Richard Kornicki CBE, Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Ealing. 

This is a very special celebration. It is UWL’s core mission to give people the skills for work. We hope that the placements and teaching have benefited each young person as much as it has our staff as they have developed supervisory and mentoring skills and learned so much from the interns.”

Adrian Ellison, Pro Vice-Chancellor for People and Digital, said at the ceremony.

Thank you to all the partners who made this possible,”

said Richard Kornicki CBE DL. 

Speaking to the interns, he said,

They have opened the door and provided assistance, but you had the courage and determination to take on the roles and go for it. I want to congratulate you for your commitment and wish you all the best as you continue in your professional lives.”

On the programme, the interns receive teaching, and job coaches evaluate the tasks involved and skills required for each rotation and ensure they gain the knowledge they need to perform well in their roles. Rotations at UWL included the Library, HR, Elior, caretaking, gardening, finance, cleaning and reception. 

As well as West London College, partners are Ealing Council, Ealing Mencap, West London Alliance, Stanhope Primary School, Mahaba Café, mental health charity Mind, Gunnersbury Sports Hub, Everyone Active Gym and The Kings Arms. 

I have never met a young person so dedicated, passionate, understanding and committed to helping young children with their learning,” 

said Anna from Stanhope Primary School in Greenford, Ealing about intern Caitlin. 

Young children need someone special who is nurturing, and they got that from Caitlin from her very first day with us.”

The father of another intern commented,

Tajima has loved this internship. He has been upbeat and highly motivated every day of it. He has loved UWL and has been so lucky to be here. It has been the most beautiful experience in his student life.”

Another intern's father, Robert, added,

This internship has been fantastic for James. He’s really come on in terms of developing skills, talking to people and having experiences of the real world. I can’t thank the job coaches enough for all they have done to help.”

Ibraheem, an intern on the programme, said,

Thank you to everyone who has helped me this year on the internship. I have learned so much. I have gained experience for the world of work, and I am super excited for this next chapter in my life.”