Success at SALTO

Software Development

One supported intern story shows what young people can achieve when they are given time, support, and a chance to grow. Today, he is a Level 4 Software Developer Apprentice with SALTO Systems. He works on real projects, solves real problems, and is part of a team that values him. But this success did not happen overnight. It is the result of hard work, determination, and strong partnerships.

He first became interested in software when he was still at college. He liked how coding allowed him to build things and fix problems. His dream was to work in tech, but he was not yet ready for a workplace like SALTO. He knew he needed more experience and more confidence.

When he first explored a Supported Internship with SALTO, he did not have the technical background needed for the role. He also found interviews challenging and often felt unsure of himself. Many young people would have stepped back at this stage. He did something different. He chose to learn, to practise, and to try again.

His next steps showed just how determined he was. He completed several work experience placements to build his skills. One important moment was a one‑week placement with Touchbyte, which later became SALTO Systems. During this week, he saw what software teams look like, how they work, and what skills he needed to build.

He then took a bold step. He enrolled on an intensive coding bootcamp to learn the basics of programming. It was a demanding course, and he had to work hard to keep up, but he did not give up. His curiosity grew, and he began to understand how software fits together. This was when people around him started to see a real change.

With support from United Response and the SALTO team, he was invited into a Supported Internship. He felt more confidence, more knowledge, and a real sense of purpose. He was ready to show what he could do, and he soon started to shine.

“I’ve been hugely impressed by him throughout his supported internship. It’s not only his technical ability, but also his determination and drive to learn. He has grown from someone who was very quiet in his first interview to someone who can talk confidently about his journey in front of around 100 people.” - Mike Trebilcock from SALTO

This transformation was clear to his family too. Our interns mum shared how proud she was of the progress he had made:

“I am over the moon. He has worked so hard since his first week of work experience at Touchbyte. I can’t thank the team enough for helping us find Mike and for supporting him along the way.” - Mum

As our intern grew more skilled, he also became more independent. He learned how to plan his work, how to solve problems on his own, and how to collaborate with others. The team at SALTO noticed his progress and were keen to help him take the next step in his career.

He has now secured a full‑time Software Engineering Apprenticeship with Baltic Apprenticeships. This means he can continue to learn while working with the team he has grown to love. It is a major step, and one he fully deserves.

Mike added:

“We’re really looking forward to welcoming him full time as a Software Engineering Apprentice. He is a great example of what inclusive employment can achieve when everyone works together.”

Our intern is now settled into his new role. He plays an active part in the software team and is trusted with meaningful tasks. His confidence continues to grow each week. He is building the foundations for a long and exciting career in tech.

His journey shows what is possible when employers, support agencies, families, and young people all believe in the same goal. It shows the power of patience, teamwork, and giving someone the space to try again. It also proves that success does not always follow a straight line. Sometimes, the most inspiring journeys are the ones that take time.

This supported interns story is a true good news story. We hope it encourages more young people to believe in themselves and to take their first steps towards the careers they want.

Well done from us all at Employment and Enterprise.