Alumni visit inspires Orchard Hill interns at Lambeth Council

Orchard Hill College DFN Project Search interns based at Lambeth Council recently welcomed Charlie Forbes-Nixon, Alumni Officer for DFN Project SEARCH, for an honest and motivating session focused on resilience, opportunity and long-term progression.

Charlie’s visit carried particular weight. Before moving into his current role, he was himself a supported intern – navigating the same challenges, uncertainties and expectations many interns face at the start of their journey. Sharing his personal story, Charlie spoke openly about setbacks, self-belief and the importance of sticking with it and embracing opportunities.

During the session, interns learned about the wider DFN Project SEARCH Graduate Network and the range of advocacy and leadership opportunities available beyond their placement.

The visit reinforced a key message at the heart of the Supported Internship programme; There is no single definition of success, and progress doesn’t always follow a straight line. What matters is building confidence, skills and resilience.

Orchard Hill College delivers Supported Internships in partnership with Unity Works, London Borough of Lambeth and employer partners, supporting young people with learning disabilities and/or autism to move towards sustainable, paid employment.

Visits like this bring the programme to life, showing interns what’s possible – not in theory, but in real, lived experience.