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We are experiencing technical issues with Apprenticeship applications. If you receive an error message please email apprenticeships@nescot.ac.uk
Nescot’s Foundation Learning department hosted a successful Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) employer networking event this week. The event was designed to help employers gain an insight into the experiences of individuals with SEND, including during job application and interview stages, and how these can be adapted.
The event was supported by guest speakers from Cognus, All Things Nice, Sunnybank Trust, and students and staff from Nescot. Invited businesses from varied industry sectors including catering, careers, childcare, health and social care, hospitality and sport attended the event.
Ashlea Stephens, Speech and Language Therapist and Emma Perridge, Occupational Therapist, from Cognus Limited, explained the SEND profile and how ‘One Size does not fit all’ with tips and advice for employers on making reasonable adjustments at work, and signposts for available support.
Sarah, from Ewell based business, All Things Nice, shared her experience of working with young adults with SEND.
The Understand Us team, from local charity, Sunnybank Trust, offered insights from the SEND perspective and how they support local businesses. Their presentation, highlighted the challenges young people with SEND face in the community and when looking for employment. They shared useful tips on how employers can support applicants and employees with SEND, and what to consider during the application process and prior to interview.
Two students from Nescot’s Supported Internship programme, also shared their experiences of the world of work. They spoke about their challenges when searching for jobs, achievements and aspirations. James talked about the application process and Anna spoke about the application and interview processes.
Mariska De Vos, SEND Specialist at Nescot, concluded the event with ‘Classroom to Workplace’ strategies that employers can apply to make their work environments inclusive.
Attendees were also given a handout on ‘Removing Barriers to Inclusion’, an employer toolkit for disability confidence, courtesy sendme2work, profiling Nescot’s Supported Internship programme. The event closed with networking opportunities for everyone present.
Slavina Kalendzhieva, Foundation Learning Head of Curriculum at Nescot said: “This event was a chance to connect and offer practical insights in creating meaningful opportunities for young people with SEND. A big thank you to all the organisations that attended and supported this event. Thanks to all our amazing guest speakers for sharing their expertise, guidance and experiences.”
Fiona Kyereme, Supported Internship and Employment Lead at Nescot added: “The event provided an opportunity for local employers to share their processes on hiring and working with people with SEND. The strategies explored, aimed at highlighting how recruitment process can be adapted for SEND applicants. Thanks to everyone who attended, we hope you found the session insightful and look forward to seeing you at our next event!”
The Supported Internship Programme at Nescot is a working course that offers students experience of a real work environment. For more information visit our website.
For information on Nescot’s Foundation Learning courses visit our website here.