Warrington & Vale Royal College has teamed up with GXO and City Plumbing to launch a new one-year work experience programme designed to help young people with additional needs enter the workforce. The initiative, announced on 26 April 2026, offers between 8 and 10 placements for people aged 18 to 24 by 13 September 2026, providing a practical route into employment through full-time, hands-on training.
This pilot programme is specifically aimed at young people who identify as having special educational needs and disabilities but do not have an active education, health and care plan. This includes individuals who currently receive support at school, those who have previously had an official plan, or those who simply identify as having additional needs and are looking for a path into work.
Interns will work five days a week at the City Plumbing site in Warrington, where GXO has managed operations since 2022. During the year, participants will complete three different work rotations across various business departments, such as engineering maintenance, warehouse and delivery, business and administration, hospitality and catering, or health and science.
To support those taking part, the company is providing all necessary uniforms and equipment, alongside access to a free on-site gym and other employee benefits. A bursary will also be available to help with associated costs for the interns.
An interest day for prospective applicants will be held on Monday 18 May 2026 at the City Plumbing site in Warrington. Potential applicants can visit during one of two sessions, from 2.00pm to 3.00pm or from 6.00pm to 7.00pm, to learn more about the programme and the application process.
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