54North Homes offers Kyle first student internship placement

A student from Leeds City College has joined 54North Homes on a nine-month student internship placement to gain first-hand experience of working in various roles in the housing sector.

The housing association has offered Kyle Higgs a supported internship through a joint venture with the college. Kyle chose 54North Homes for his placement after students were invited in for a ‘get to know us, ask us anything’ session, which was also an opportunity for the students to see the environment they would be working in.

Kyle, 24, will gain valuable and meaningful work experience to support his development of workplace skills, gain confidence, and explore potential career pathways.

He will spend three months working with the gardening and estates team and then a further three months working alongside site safety officers. He will then choose where he would like to spend his last three months.

Mark Pearson, Managing Director of 54North Homes approached Leeds City College himself to offer a learning opportunity for one of their students. Mark was very keen to give opportunities to young people with additional needs, having experience of supporting his daughter who has autism.

He said: “This is something I am really passionate about and wanted to support the students with their development but also give back to the local community. By offering students work experience, they will gain the skills, knowledge and understanding that will hopefully give them a clearer idea of what career they wish to pursue.

“As well as a social landlord, we are also a proud local employer and this programme reflects our commitment to supporting our community. It’s also a first for us, making it not only an exciting opportunity for Kyle, but also a valuable learning experience for 54North.”

Commenting on his placement so far, Kyle said: “I am really enjoying my time at 54North Homes because I like getting out of the house, in the fresh air and having routine. I feel really welcomed by the team and enjoy the manual work I do in my role.”

Holly Barker, Supported Internship Job Coach at Leeds City College, said: “At Leeds City College, we are committed to supporting neurodiverse young adults in developing the skills, confidence, and experience necessary to progress into meaningful employment. We are therefore proud to be working in partnership with 54North Homes to offer a supported internship to one of our learners.

“Supported internships are structured, work-based programmes designed specifically for Neurodiverse young adults. They provide valuable hands-on experience in a real working environment, alongside personalised support from both a Job coach and the employer.

“We greatly appreciate the commitment shown by 54North Homes in fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace. Collaborations such as this are instrumental in helping our learners take significant steps towards independence and sustained employment."