The award-winning DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen employability programme is offering young people aged 16-24 with learning disabilities or who are on the autistic spectrum the opportunity to join Session 2026/27.
Applications for a place on the programme from August 2026 – June 2027 are open until Monday 16 March 2026.
Members of the Project SEARCH team are hosting an Open Day in the Project SEARCH classroom, Butchart Building, University Road, AB24 3UT on Thursday 5 February 2026 where applicants can see round the classroom, meet the team and ask any questions about the programme.
Further information about the programme, including how applicants can apply, is available online at: Recruitment | StaffNet | The University of Aberdeen (abdn.ac.uk)
The programme provides real-life work experience, combined with training in employability and independent-living skills, to young people with learning disabilities and/or autistic spectrum conditions who want to go on to find paid employment.
Project SEARCH is a one-year Internship programme to 12 young people each year who are supported to undertake three work placements within the university and study towards City & Guilds qualifications.
Upon graduation, the Interns receive support to enter paid employment and to date, well over 60% of graduates are now in employment in the North-east of Scotland – nearly 10 times above the average employment rate for those with a learning disability who do not enter any type of post-school programme.