A Leek-based artisan food manufacturer is helping young people with additional needs to make their way in the world.
Cottage Delight, a family-owned business making tasty treats from luxury jams and chutneys to fudge, has formed a partnership with Abbey Hill School & College in Meir, Stoke-on-Trent.
One of its students is working alongside the firm’s 130 staff under the college’s supported intern scheme after expressing a wish to work there while on a group visit to the factory.
Tyrell works Monday to Wednesday in the assembly team where he is labelling products, making up boxes and packing products in gift packs, supported by a fully-qualified job coach.
The supported intern programme enables students to experience working life, to gain transferable skills and knowledge and to build their confidence within a work placement. There’s no cost to the employer.
Cottage Delight is especially happy to take part in the scheme because its sustainable business objectives include an ambition to contribute to the wider community, giving young people of all abilities the opportunity for work experience.
“Tyrell has been with us since last year and he is fantastic addition to the team,” said Marketing Director Sarah Williams.
“Initially it was all about what we could do for Tyrell, but what we were not prepared for was what Tyrell could do for us – he has been an absolute joy to have as part of the team, and our colleagues have a sense of purpose beyond their day-to-day job.
“The supported internship scheme is a wonderfully special journey, and I would encourage business leaders across the region to take part in the scheme. Abbey Hill School and College are a fantastic partner to work with, providing lots of support on that journey.”
A short video created by Cottage Delight for the school can be viewed here.
Business leaders wishing to learn more about supported intern schemes can contact the school’s Employer Relationship Manager Zoe Gunn at [email protected].
Find more on the Government-backed supported intern scheme here.
