What interns and parents say
Celebrating the DFN Project SEARCH graduating class of 2024
Of our recent graduates:
- 100% said the programme has improved their confidence
- 99% said the programme has improved their communication skills
- 100% said the programme was the right next step for them
Quotes from parents
"Go for it, they have the experience, knowledge, patience, support and contacts" - Parent of Alesso, 2024 graduate
"As a parent, watching my son thrive with project DFN Project SEARCH's support has been a journey of immense joy and pride. Witnessing his transformation from a place of despair into a confident, employed young adult has been emotionally jubilant. This programme hasn't just offered our son an opportunity to fulfil his ambitions towards a full-time career, it's given him a brighter, more inclusive future. We will forever be grateful as we express our thanks for not just employment, but the embrace of true potential and the real possibility of promise tomorrow." - Parent of Kinan, 2023 graduate
"Harry is calmer, more confident in himself, he knows how to behave appropriately in the workplace and he is really ready to get a job now. DFN Project SEARCH is a great step into work and the course provides a caring environment to try out and experience what the work environment is really like. Harry's colleagues at Hounslow Council are brilliant and so supportive and if there are any challenges, the DFN Project SEARCH team are on hand to help. Overall, it's been a very positive experience for Harry and hopefully a job is around the corner for him." - Parent of Harry, 2024 graduate
Quotes from interns and graduates
"People who struggle to work and people who like making new friends along the way"
"People who need help getting experience for work"
"Anyone with a learning disability or that wants to transition from a school/college environment into the working world."
"Don't worry about being anxious as you will feel welcomed as you settle in".
"I would tell them to go ahead and apply."
"If they are unsure then they should go to as many open events as possible before the program starts."
"I like DFN Project SEARCH, it has helped my confidence and I have learnt new skills"
"I would say experience it. It will help you for the future"
"Learning new skills and also learning how to write a CV and to do a presentation"
"The new friends (and old) I have met and spent time with"
"Engineering in Thorpe Park"
"Getting to know everyone, learning new things at work and communicating with the team. I feel that I get a lot of support from my tutor, mentor and manager"
"I really like the company of the managers I work with and how friendly and supportive the tutors are"
