A proposal by Alan Milburn to expand supported internships for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been welcomed by a retired special school headteacher. The headteacher expressed support for the initiative, stating that society has often focused on limitations rather than capabilities when it comes to young people with SEND.
The headteacher noted that former students, once established in a workplace, have not only maintained employment but also advanced to positions of greater responsibility. It is hoped that Milburn's proposals could shift the focus from what young people with special needs cannot do to what they could achieve with appropriate support.
Another reader highlighted that employers might be overlooking highly motivated staff by not participating in projects that offer supported internships.