Coleg Llandrillo Supported Internship 2025/26 Graduates celebrate their achievements in end of year ceremony
Coleg Llandrillo recently celebrated the achievements of its Supported Internship graduates, marking the conclusion of another life-changing year for the programme.
Surrounded by family, friends, tutors and colleagues from Asda, the students gathered to reflect on their journeys and look forward to the future.
In partnership between Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, DFN Project SEARCH, and Asda, the programme is designed to provide young people with learning disabilities and/or autism spectrum conditions the vital skills, experience, and confidence needed to secure paid employment.
Now in its second successful year at Coleg Llandrillo, the programme forms part of a national initiative, with Asda hosting 23 similar internship sites across the UK.
The impact of the nine-month programme goes far beyond basic workplace training. By rotating through various departments within Asda, interns learn to navigate real-world workplace dynamics, overcome personal barriers, and completely redefine what they believe is possible for their futures.
Coleg Llandrillo Skills for Life and Work Lecturer Tracey Hockson, highlighted the emotional and professional growth seen in the classroom and on the shop floor. Speaking on the positive effect the programme has on raising confidence and ambition, she said of one learner: “He’s opened his eyes to his capabilities, realized what he can do, and he wants more for himself.”
The true success of the 2025/26 cohort is reflected in their impressive graduation destinations, with all four graduates stepping directly into employment or exciting community roles:
Kayleigh has successfully transitioned into paid employment within the hospitality industry.
Kyle has gained fantastic experience in a clearing role and through volunteering at Venue Cymru, and is now actively applying for paid employment.
James R and James H have both successfully secured seasonal employment directly with Asda.
Reflecting on his time on the programme, James R said:
"This course has been different and helpful. It does get you a good job in the end. It teaches you lots of new skills and you can meet new staff and make new friends. I’ve been supported when I need it."
James H shared a heartfelt message about how the experience helped him overcome intense workplace anxieties:
"For me, this course has really helped me build my confidence over the last nine or so months. At the beginning of this journey, I was not confident and I was always stressed about coming into work and having to interact with customers that I have never met before.
"I think being in a nice group and getting the right support has really helped me too. I have developed a range of skills and have learnt a lot during this course. I have worked in different areas and departments of the store which all come with a different dynamic. It’s been really beneficial. I have also got on well with all of the Asda colleagues and they have also been really supportive.
"I’d like to thank Tracey, Ryan and Ffion for all their help and support during this course. Also, I would like to thank Asda for employing me and giving me a chance to show how hardworking I am, which has been a great milestone for me."
A huge congratulations to Kayleigh, Kyle, James R, and James C. We are incredibly proud of everything you have accomplished and the dedication you have shown.