Alstom launches internship to enhance job prospects of SEND students

Derby train-maker Alstom has launched its first supported internship programme designed to help enhance the job prospects of those with learning disabilities.

Working in partnership with Derby College Group, the ASPIRE scheme supports special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) students with hands-on experience at its Litchurch Lane Works.

Interns are given real workplace experience and structured support, with those on the scheme currently working on Alstom’s CrossCountry Voyager refresh project.

Nina Atwal, head of social value UK and Ireland at Alstom, said “We’ve been genuinely impressed by the interns’ knowledge of both historic and modern rolling stock – it’s clear they’re passionate about what they’re doing, and it’s a joy to have them on board.

“Working with Derby College has already shown how powerful collaboration can be, especially when it comes to creating meaningful opportunities for underrepresented groups.”

Amy Bacon, supported internship and work experience lead at Derby College Group, said: “We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Alstom on its supported internship programme.

“This collaboration is opening doors to truly life-changing opportunities for our interns, giving them a unique chance to gain real-world experience in a supportive and inclusive environment.”

Research reveals only 4.8% of individuals with a learning disability or autism spectrum condition in England are in permanent paid employment.

Alstom’s supported internship programme provides the opportunity to achieve sustained, paid employment by equipping individuals with the skills they need through hands-on learning in the workplace.

In collaboration with Derby College Group, which provides a job coach and classroom-based learning in parallel to the internship – the students are working alongside colleagues from Alstom’s Training Academy, with the latter delivering bespoke teaching that will enhance their work experience.

Nina added: “I’m excited to watch our first group of interns grow at Alstom – not just gaining valuable work experience, but also building life skills, confidence, and self-belief that will help them thrive and move into paid employment.

“It’s also a pleasure to be working on our first supported internship programme with such passionate colleagues at Alstom who want to make a difference.”

Specifically, the interns are working on Alstom’s CrossCountry Voyager refurbishment project, which is seeing the operator’s Class 220 and Class 221 trains receiving an interior refresh – including new seats and tables – while their exteriors are being repainted in a new livery.

Valued at around £60 million, the CrossCountry Voyager project encompasses 312 cars that are being fitted with new carpets, improved lighting and a new passenger counting system.

The interns are supporting the mechanical and electrical works scopes of the refurbishment project.

Students Aaron Donaldson and Harry Hedges are the first interns to take part in Alstom’s ASPIRE programme.

Aaron was selected by Derby College Group for his engineering abilities, knowledge of trains and his keen focus on securing his future with employment.

Meanwhile, Harry has a keen appreciation in rail that has spanned his entire life, from an interest in model trains as a child to now volunteering at Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.

Amy said: “Alstom has gone above and beyond to welcome our interns, working closely with them ahead of their placements to ensure a smooth and confident transition into the workplace.

“Their commitment to our interns and inclusion has made a real difference, and the interns are excited and eager to begin this next chapter.

“This partnership is a powerful example of how education and businesses can come together to empower young people with SEND, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to progress into meaningful employment.”