From Stigma to Strength: Thrive, UHCW & Coventry City Council Empower Young People with Autism
Thrive Education Partnership, a family of SEND schools across the West Midlands, is celebrating the impact of a powerful partnership with The University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust (UHCW) and Coventry City Council that is opening doors for young people with autism and disabilities to find meaningful careers in the NHS.
The initiative, which builds on UHCW’s and Coventry City Council’s supported internship which launched in 2015, provides sixth form students from Corley Academy, one of Thrive’s special schools, with direct experience in the workplace, supported by trained job coaches and tailored opportunities that match their strengths.
This joined-up approach is not just changing lives; it’s challenging outdated perceptions. For many employers, autism is still misunderstood; particularly the myth that autistic individuals cannot communicate effectively or contribute in high-pressure environments. Thrive, along with UHCW and Coventry City Council’s Job Shop, is proving otherwise.
One of the standout successes is an ex-Corley Academy student who recently secured a full-time role as a healthcare support worker at UHCW. Originally interested in working with animals, she joined the programme with an open mind and quickly discovered a passion for care during her first trial on a hospital ward.
“People with autism don’t need others to lower their expectations, they need someone willing to think differently,” said Mark White, Headteacher at Corley Academy. “This programme is built on that principle. It’s about changing environments to fit the individual, not limiting their ambitions. This student came back after her first placement and said, ‘I’ve found what I want to do - I want to be a healthcare assistant.’ That’s the kind of real-world impact this approach can have.”
Kirstie, Apprenticeship and Employability Manager at UHCW said: “She’s now a valued member of the team, known for her work ethic, reliability, and the positive energy she brings. Too often people just see a disability. What we see is a brilliant colleague.”
The student progressed from a one-day-a-week placement to two days, and upon completing her programme in July 2024, moved to the supported intern programme. The student was then successful in gaining a full-time role as Healthcare Support Worker. This pathway model works because it’s rooted in strong relationships. Coventry City Council’s job coaches play a vital role, getting to know students while they’re still at Corley, and easing the transition into the workplace.
Hannah Rogers, Supported Employment Manager at Coventry City Council said: “Corley has such an excellent placement programme that we always feel one step ahead. The partnerships we have with schools make supporting the transition into internships smoother, and ultimately, it leads to better outcomes for the young people. The student in this case is determined, resilient, and has the gift you need to thrive in healthcare.”
The success of the internship programme isn’t just measured by job offers; it’s seen in the culture shift within host organisations. Over the last 10 years, staff at each organisation have become more disability-aware, more confident in offering support, and more open to inclusive hiring.
“We’re seeing year after year that this just makes good business sense,” said Mr White. “Young people from our schools are bringing fresh energy, dedication, and real value to the NHS. They’re not just being included, they’re shaping the future workforce.”
If you're an employer, educator, or parent who wants to explore partnership opportunities or find out more about the programme, contact:
Hannah Rogers
Supported Employment Manager, Coventry City Council
Hannah.Rogers@coventry.gov.uk
07534 280 586
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