What is Project SEARCH?

The programme supports a cohort of up to twelve Interns in undertaking 3 Internships (work placements) over a one year academic period of study. The Interns are supported to attain vocational qualifications (City & Guilds Certificate in Employability Skills) and upon the conclusion of the programme, receive support to source and sustain paid employment.

The Internships and core curriculum have been tailored to meet the needs of the local business community following discussion and engagement with employers, including via 'Meet the Interns' and other networking events. This has enabled us to ensure that upon graduation, our Interns are ready to undertake roles in areas of recognised skill shortages and those where it has proven difficult to recruit and/or retain staff.

DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen was the first University site for such a programme in the UK and is one of over 70 sites throughout the UK and Europe which have supported more than 1,300 young people into work.

Successful Internships have been embedded in the following areas across the University:

• Estates & Facilities;
• Catering & Commercial Services;
• Digital & Information (IT) Services;
• Music Department;
• Suttie Centre;
• Rocking Horse Nursery.

A number of external Internships have also taken place in partnership with local organisations, including North East Scotland College, Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen Sports Village and Inspire Catering.