Accessible summary People with learning disabilities can feel excluded from society; employment can help to improve social inclusion. Everyone needs to be creative in their approach to facilitate work‐based placements and employment opportunities for students at further education colleges. Students with learning disabilities, parents, education staff and employers need to work together to make sure everyone has the best work experience possible. Summary Employment is widely acknowledged as a key factor to social inclusion, but it is estimated that <7% of people with learning disabilities are in paid employment. It was the aim of the research study to critically examine the experience of gaining employment from the perspectives of students with learning disabilities, parents, education staff and employers. All participants were recruited from one collaborating UK organisation, a college offering further education for young people with learning disabilities. Twenty‐three interviews were conducted. Analysis of the data identified three themes surrounding the perceived roles of: Protector, Rescuer and Worker. Recommendations are discussed to improve collaborative working between student, parent, education staff and employer to overcome some of the difficulties influencing employment rates and contribute to the empowerment and inclusion of people with learning disabilities in society.