A 20-year-old from Bedford has secured a permanent job at the John Bunyan Sports and Fitness centre after taking part in its supported internship programme.
Sophie Plummer completed a 10-week placement earlier this year with Better, the charitable enterprise that runs Bedford’s leisure centres.
The Bedford Borough Council Supported Internship Programme helps 16 – 24-year-olds with special educational needs gain valuable workplace experience and helps build confidence and employment skills through on-the-job learning.
The initiative brings together organisations from across different sectors to create meaningful career pathways for young people in the borough.
Its wider ambition is to help build a more inclusive workforce where talent is recognised and opportunities are accessible to all.
Read: Bedford Borough Council hosts special ceremony to celebrate Supported Interns
The perfect fit
The role at John Bunyan Sports & Fitness was the perfect fit for Sophie, who has a keen interest in sport and working with children.
Throughout her placement, she gained experience in areas including the soft play space, the studios and sports hall.
Thanks to support from centre staff, teachers and job coaches, Sophie thrived throughout the experience and has now been offered a part-time position at the centre.
Sophie said: “My experience has been truly amazing.
“I was nervous at first, but my confidence grew week by week. I feel incredibly proud to have been offered a job, and I’m excited to keep learning and developing my skills.”
Aimee Fowler, facilitator for the Bedford Borough Supported Internship Programme, said: “We approached GLL (the social enterprise behind Better) because of its strong reputation and commitment to widening participation and inclusivity.
“Their willingness to adapt roles, provide meaningful work, and welcome interns as part of the workforce made them an ideal partner for this initiative.”
Aaron Colbert, GLL community sports manager for the Bedford Partnership, said the company was very pleased to be able to continue to support Sophie’s development.
“Sophie showed enthusiasm from the start, and her confidence grew throughout the placement,” he said.
“She has become a valued member of the team.”
You can find out more about the Bedford Borough Supported Internship Programme here.
