At South Bank Colleges, supporting every student to achieve their full potential is more than a mission—it's a commitment. That commitment is perhaps most powerfully seen in Project Search, the college’s transformative work placement programme for Inclusive Learning students. In collaboration with employers such as King’s College Hospital and the NHS, Project Search offers real-world work experience that builds confidence, employability skills, and ambition.
We recently spoke with four remarkable students who have been part of the programme. Their stories are personal, powerful, and a testament to what’s possible when inclusive education meets opportunity.
From Painting and Decorating to Post Room Professionalism
Tomide Adeyemi started his journey at Lambeth College with a course in Painting and Decorating. "I found it really interesting and fun," he shared. But it was his time on Project Search that transformed his career direction.
During his NHS placement, Tomide rotated through warehouse logistics, post room operations, and housekeeping, developing essential skills like punctuality, time management, and teamwork.
“My time in the post room really stood out,” he said. “Sorting letters and understanding how departments communicate—it gave me a sense of responsibility. It made me feel like, this could be me in the future.”
Now volunteering with The Felix Project, a charity foodbank, Tomide remains driven to find employment and return to the NHS if the opportunity arises. “It made me happy to be there. I gained real experience, and I’m proud to have that on my CV.”
Building Confidence and Friendships Alongside a Career Path
Gloria, another Project Search intern, worked in several departments at King’s College Hospital including Pharmacy, Therapies, and Children’s Outpatients. From filing prescription paperwork to calling patients and guiding them to appointments, Gloria thrived in varied roles.
“The staff have been really friendly,” she said with a smile. “Some even joked with me—it made me feel part of the team.”
Her college journey started with a course in Preparation for Employment, where she also gained skills through activities like sports at Streatham Leisure Centre and volunteering at London Zoo. But it’s clear the NHS left a lasting impression. “Working for the NHS is my dream job,” she told us.
Passion for People, Pride in Progress
Eugenie, who supported tea and coffee services in the hospital and ensured areas were clean and welcoming, described her role with pride: “I love being productive—helping people, keeping things tidy, making sure everything’s ready. The NHS staff are really lovely.”
Her experience shows that even small tasks can lead to big confidence boosts and a sense of belonging. “We joke around,” she said. “Everyone’s very kind. It’s the best place.”
Learning, Inclusion, and the Power of Representation
Lola James, whose rotations included Cardiology Research and Children’s Outpatients, had a unique perspective on the clinical side of NHS operations. She experienced patient-facing roles, helped manage appointment systems, and even wore scrubs to observe medical procedures.
But Lola’s most powerful contribution may have been her advocacy for neurodiversity in the workplace.
“I’ve been open about my needs and experiences with ADHD and dyslexia,” she said. “The staff have been incredibly supportive. It’s important to educate others—because if people don’t know someone who’s neurodivergent, how can they understand?”
Her work experience has sparked a passion not just for healthcare, but for changing perceptions and increasing awareness: “Surrounding yourself with new people is how you learn.”
More Than a Programme
Project Search is more than just a work placement scheme. It is a bridge—to confidence, to independence, to employment, and to a sense of purpose. For many students, it marks the first time they’ve felt truly seen and supported in a professional environment.
Whether it's learning how to prepare a hospital trolley or how to reassure a nervous patient, every task helps build a future.
As Tomide put it best: “It’s a good course to add to my CV—and to tell the whole world what I learned.”
Interested in Project Search or Inclusive Learning at South Bank Colleges?
Visit our Inclusive Learning page or speak to our admissions team today to find out how to apply.
