2023 saw the launch of Downe House’s unique Global Internship Programme for our Lower Sixth pupils. A total of twenty Sixth Form pupils undertook placements in the UK and overseas. These girls embraced the opportunity to gain an early introduction to global cultures and work styles, and their professional conduct certainly impressed our employment partners.
The Global Partnerships team set about making the experience as true to life as possible, with the girls completing application forms, taking part in interviews and in many cases attending an introductory meeting with their internship contact either face to face or via Teams.
The girls undertook placements in a variety of sectors, including Human Rights Law in the UK, Venture Capital in Zambia, Finance and Market Research in Hong Kong, Veterinary Medicine in Australia, Education in the Gulf countries, Marketing in London, Insurance & Audit in Germany, Sustainable Development in the UK, Women’s Rights & Mental Health in Canada, and Engineering and the Chemical Industry Supply Chain in Thailand. Each girl was matched to the internship that best suited her studies or career aims.
After the internship, the girls wrote thank you letters and completed evaluation forms. The internship companies were also invited to provide feedback on the girls, for insight into their attitude to work, ability to work as part of a team, quality of tasks and attention to detail. The girls rose to the challenge brilliantly, and from the comments made by their internship providers, it is clear they have proved themselves to be a real asset as all girls were noted as being either ‘very good’ or in most cases ‘excellent’ across all areas.
“My colleagues were very impressed that, even without any prior work experience, Zara could keep up with the pace of tasks assigned to her.”
Read More“I gained an understanding of the financial sector and have uncovered a potential career path.”
Read More“The whole experience has definitely strengthened my resolve and made me really look forward to the next stage.”
Read More“The team wanted to hire them there and then on the spot as they were both so helpful and wonderful.”
Read More“Over time they felt much more confident, started asking questions and brought suggestions.”
Read More“It was really amazing to learn and discuss the theory behind everything Nurture Landscapes does, and then be able to see it on their live working sites.”
Read MoreWould your place of work be a good host for one of our internship placements? We’d love to hear from you! Please email us at:
globalpartnerships@downehouse.net.