University launches new Grad Launch Internships programme for local employers and charities

The Grad Launch Internships programme, introduced in December, invites organisations across the region to host a paid internship that is partially or fully funded by the University. The scheme aims to create meaningful opportunities that offer students real‑world experience, professional development and a valuable stepping stone into graduate employment. 

Employers taking part are asked to provide supportive, developmental roles that enable students to apply their academic learning in a practical setting while contributing fresh ideas and energy to the organisation. 

Early feedback from participating organisations has been overwhelmingly positive. Geography graduate Martha Shepard applied her academic knowledge and gained hands-on experience in the charity sector with Young Enterprise on a fully-funded internship. While gaining insight into how national charities operate, Martha was responsible for writing case studies to promote the work of the organisation. 

Viv Couche, from the Young Enterprise Philanthropy Team, shared her experience. She said: “Martha added significant value during her time with us. She was professional, creative, and made a really positive impression across the organisation. The process of advertising, recruiting and managing the internship was really seamless, thanks to support from the University of Chester Internships Team. 

“I’d recommend the internships opportunity for graduates and employers alike. As a charity, it’s been a really impactful way for us to benefit from a skilled additional resource, without incurring significant extra costs to our budget.” 

Following her internship, Martha progressed with Young Enterprise into volunteer management, later becoming a Trusts and Foundations Coordinator. 

Kirsty Badrock, Employer Engagement Co-ordinator at the University of Chester said: “We wish to encourage employers to consider taking part in this scheme. Not only does it offer employers the opportunity to recruit fresh, new talent but it also gives invaluable experience to recent graduates as they embark on their careers.” 

Local employers and charities interested in hosting an intern through the Grad Launch Internships programme are encouraged to submit an expression of interest by Monday, February 2. 

The Careers and Employability team welcomes enquiries from organisations of all sizes and sectors who are keen to support emerging talent while enhancing their own capacity and impact. For more information contact  employers@chester.ac.uk or fill in the expression of interest form on CareerHub https://careers.chester.ac.uk/form.aspx?id=1943868