Project SEARCH

What is Project SEARCH?

Project SEARCH is a holistic, one year work experience programme to get you work-ready.

It is led by businesses and provides young disabled people with the skills they need to enter the workforce with confidence. Interns are placed within participating workplaces and provided practical hands-on training, education, career development as well as comprehensive support throughout the programme. The programme was originally developed at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre, which is the administrative headquarters for Project SEARCH. In Christchurch the Project SEARCH pilot is hosted by Canterbury District Health Board at Burwood Hospital.

What to expect

If you are getting ready to leave school or further education and you’re interested in getting ‘work-ready’ Project SEARCH may be for you.

  • The unpaid internship runs for one (school) year, with breaks during school holidays. You will work five days a week so you need to be prepared to commit for this time.

  • You will be offered a mixture of practical work and classroom based learning. You can expect a range of experiences that will interest and challenge you.

  • You will be doing real work and you may have to step out of your comfort zone!

  • The team from Project SEARCH are knowledgeable, friendly and experienced and will provide ongoing support to ensure you get the most out of the experience.

  • The programme is well structured, with regular opportunities to discuss your progress at work and your wellbeing as the year progresses.

How to apply

To be eligible to apply, you need to be a disabled person aged 18–22, enrolled at high school or in further education and want to be in paid employment. If you are interested in learning more, visit the Project SEARCH website or contact co-ordinator Linda Leishman on 027 504 3694.