South Bank Colleges is delighted to celebrate the success of former Supported Internship student Lola, who is now progressing into paid employment at King’s College Hospital, one of the country’s leading NHS Trusts.
After completing her studies on the college’s Project Search programme last academic year, Lola secured a role as a Ward Receptionist in the Children’s Outpatient Department at King’s College Hospital — the very department where she completed one of her work placements.
Reflecting on her journey, Lola shared how valuable her experience at South Bank Colleges had been in preparing her for the workplace:
“I feel that Project Search has prepared me pretty well because I did one of my work experiences in the department that I’m currently in,” said Lola. “I’m finding that I’m adapting pretty quickly, with help from my colleagues.”
Lola also spoke about the vital support she received from staff and job coaches throughout her time on the programme.
“Staff I worked with supported me whenever I was confused or learning something new,” she explained. “My teacher Doki helped me with my learning — for instance, email writing, CV support and money management, which I can apply to my saving scheme when I get paid. Both my teacher and job coaches provided one-to-one support, which was crucial in developing my work skills and helping me grow as a person.”
When asked what she’s most looking forward to in her new role, Lola added with a smile:
“I’m excited about my first salary!”
Hale Pearce, Director, Young Peoples Essential Skills at South Bank Colleges, shared her congratulations:
“This is wonderful news. Lola worked incredibly hard during her time on the programme, and it’s fantastic to see her thriving in employment. We’d also like to thank Doki and Mohibur, who worked closely with Lola and provided such dedicated support.”
The Project Search Supported Internship programme at South Bank Colleges gives young people with learning difficulties and disabilities the opportunity to gain real work experience, develop employability skills, and secure meaningful paid employment. Placements are run in partnership with King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, where students work alongside NHS staff while receiving on-site coaching and classroom-based learning from college tutors.
Lola’s success is a shining example of how commitment, teamwork, and support can help students achieve their goals — and build bright futures beyond college.
