Entry requirements
For further information about the programme or to find out about eligibility, please visit the University of Aberdeen Project SEARCH website or contact dfnprojectsearchuoa@abdn.ac.uk.
Why take this course?
This is a one-year internship programme, supporting young people with learning disabilities and/or autism to enter employment by providing training in employability and independent living skills along with real-life work experience.
It is a collaborative project between the University of Aberdeen, North East Scotland College and Values into Action Scotland (VIAS) with support from Skills Development Scotland (SDS).
What you will experience
This is a one-year programme which sees participants, known as interns, who are registered students at North East Scotland College, spend time completing a City and Guilds qualification as well as embarking on a rotation of three work placements in various roles and departments within the University and or other local businesses. Interns will be based at the University of Aberdeen, King’s Campus.
Interns will also complete a period of orientation prior to the start of the course to familiarise them with the programme and the University.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying to this course.
What you will get
City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills.
Opportunities
North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to several universities across Scotland and strong relationships with industry employers.
Employment
This one-year programme helps participants develop their employability skills and prepare for entering the world of work, while also providing valuable connections with local employers.
Student Stories
Andrew Robison
Supported Programmes
Preparation for Work (SCQF Level 3)
“I like the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and my parents and lecturers have all commented on how I’ve grown in confidence. I’ve made new friends and look forward to coming to College each day.”
Read more about Andrew's story
Leon Lindsay
Supported Programmes
Qualification for Work, Level 4
“I love everything about NESCol! I’ve made good friends, get on well with my classmates and the lecturers are really nice. “
Read more about Leon's story
Ross Henderson
Supported Programmes
DFN Project Search
“If you feel like your anxiety is really bad or if you have a disability, don’t let that bring you down. If you don’t try, you’ll never know! I might be deaf, but because you’ve got disabilities it doesn’t make you different to anybody else.”
Read more about Ross's story
Shannon Barbour
Supported Programmes
Preparation for Work
“I thought I was coming to college for education, but I got so much more than that: friendships, support, independence, guidance and a push when I needed it. I have had such an amazing journey here.”
Read more about Shannon's story
James McLean
Supported Programmes
Qualification for Work: Hospitality
“It’s one of the best decisions I have ever made to continue at College. Lecturers and my classmates have helped me come out of my shell and the leadership skills that are taught on my course have helped me enormously – I feel better about myself.”
Read more about James's story
Applications
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
Apply now
You can apply for a place on this course by completing an online application form, which you can access using the ‘Apply Online’ button. Once submitted, this will be processed by our Admissions team.
University of Aberdeen
StartsAug 2026
Course CodeC00052
Alternatively, you can complete a paper application and send it to us.
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