Interns graduate in style at the 2025 awards!

The Interns’ success was marked with a graduation ceremony at Furness College, Channelside campus this week. The celebration brought together the graduates, their families, representatives from supporting partners, and the teams they worked with.

The twelve Interns, who all have education and health care plans, experience three different work rotations across the academic year with the clear aim of achieving full-time employment at the end of the programme.

Josh Clark began his journey in the catering department at Furness General Hospital, performing various tasks as part of the busy team. Josh explored other roles, before committing to a career in the hospitality and catering industry. He is looking forward to his next steps, after securing full-time employment.

Josh said: “I got a lot of transferrable skills on this programme and made a lot of new friends.

I’d like to say a big thank you to all the managers, mentors and teams that have been involved in the programme at FGH, and external businesses for your continuing support, it means a lot.”

Josh Clark and Jayden White were awarded Intern of the Year. Katy Herbert and Olly Wilson were recognised with the Most Improved Intern of the Year Award.

Katy said: I have enjoyed working in Ward 6 and being part of the programme.

I have learnt how to look after people while on the programme and after myself and have become more independent.”

Nicola Newton, Head of Foundation Learning, Furness College said:

The Supported Internship is an amazing transition opportunity for students needing that extra time and support to secure paid employment and fulfilling careers. Many of our Interns have overcome significant challenges throughout their education experience and have so much to offer in the world of work. The cohort this year have been outstanding and we are really proud of the progress they have made.”

Representatives from host businesses were recognised by Interns for the support and encouragement received this year.

Host Business Hero Award – Ben Wilson, BAE Systems

Manager Mentor Award – Georgina Leadbetter, BAE Systems

Host Business Hero Award – Samantha Hunt, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay

Manager Mentor Award – Jenna Strickland, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay