Alstom has launched its first supported internship programme, ASPIRE, at its historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works. The scheme is designed to support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), offering structured workplace experience alongside tailored learning.

The initiative comes as research shows just 4.8% of individuals with a learning disability or autism spectrum condition in England are in permanent paid employment. Alstom’s programme aims to address this gap by offering experience in practical skills, through hands-on training, with the long-term goal of finding paid employment.

Delivered in partnership with Derby College, the interns receive support from a dedicated job coach and classroom-based learning alongside their time in the workplace. Alstom’s Training Academy also provides tailored teaching, aligned to match the current and evolving rail industry. 

The interns are currently contributing to the £60 million CrossCountry Voyager refurbishment project, which covers 312 cars across the operator’s Class 220 and Class 221 fleets.

The trains are undergoing an interior refresh, including new seats, tables, carpets, improved lighting and a new passenger counting system, while their exteriors are being repainted in a new livery. Interns are supporting both mechanical and electrical workstreams.

The first participants in the ASPIRE programme are Aaron Donaldson and Harry Hedges. Aaron was selected for his engineering skills, train knowledge, and focus on securing future employment, while Harry brings a lifelong passion for rail, from model trains in childhood to volunteering at Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.

Both first visited the site in summer 2025, meeting colleagues and learning about Britain’s largest and oldest operating train factory. After several ‘in touch’ days, their supported internships began in 2026 and will run for up to one year. Alstom also plans to welcome a further four interns, aged 16 to 24, at the Derby site later in 2026.

“We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Alstom on their supported internship programme. This collaboration is opening doors to truly life-changing opportunities for our interns, giving them a unique chance to gain real-world experience in a supportive and inclusive environment. Alstom have gone above and beyond to welcome our interns, working closely with them ahead of their placements to ensure a smooth and confident transition into the workplace. Their commitment to our interns and inclusion has made a real difference, and the interns are excited and eager to begin this next chapter.”

Amy Bacon, Supported Internship and Work Experience Lead at Derby College.