Graduation for Project SEARCH interns

Cardiff and Vale College students have enhanced their career prospects through Cardiff University’s ongoing involvement in a major international project.

Project SEARCH provides employment and learning opportunities for young people with disabilities and/or autism.

Eleven Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC) students have each completed three 10-week internships around the University with support from CAVC and ELITE Supported Employment Agency staff.

The interns and their families attended a graduation ceremony at Cardiff University to celebrate their success.

Dane Griffiths, who worked with the sports maintenance team in Estates, said at the ceremony: “Project SEARCH has helped me understand the different work skills and what’s needed in work.

“I’ve gained confidence and worked with different people. While working with the grounds team I’ve enjoyed all parts of the job but I like the pitch marking the best.

“Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the project this year and the past and in the future.”

The students were based in different departments around the University including Human Resources, Estates and the National Centre for Mental Health.

The interns will now seek employment where they can put the skills they have developed into action.

Dr Samantha Hibbitts, the University’s Dean of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, told the ceremony: “It has been an amazing opportunity and we’ve had such positive feedback from all the staff involved in the project.

“We’re really proud to have been the first employer in Wales to take part and we’re proud of the interns we’ve had since 2016. We’re so proud of all we’ve achieved.”

Project SEARCH, a global initiative that started in the United States, is funded in Wales by the wider Engage to Change project.