One of the biggest insurance companies in the country has launched a new programme to help autistic teenagers from Norfolk transition into the world of work.

Aviva’s Norwich office will work with the Wherry School – a specialist school for autistic students in Norfolk - to create “urgently needed” employment opportunities for young people on the autism spectrum. 

The one-year internship programme will give practical work experience and training to teenagers aged 17-19, with the school saying it would help to remove “unnecessary employment barriers” for neurodiverse people. 

Rachel Quick, principal at the Wherry School, said: “We seek to nurture the talents of autistic learners and to provide an educational setting that celebrates autistic identity.  

“We have seen our students grow and move into higher education. Now we want to continue this journey encouraging young people with an opportunity to explore the world of work. 

“This partnership will not only allow our students to flourish but will also enable the young people who take part to inform the workplace about autism and their talents.”

The Wherry School will host an open evening about the programme on Thursday 23rd November at 4:00pm.