EMPLOY.ED

Evidence indicates that compared with their non-WP peers, students from WP backgrounds still face a range of structural barriers which can hinder their career prospects and potentially limit their options. One of these barriers is access to work experience. Employ.ed is the University’s in-house work experience scheme built to provide ‘home’ opportunities for our students taking into account the need for it to be  paid (to ensure student aren’t disadvantaged financially); supported (helping those new or nervous to working); and worth their while (completing an Edinburgh Award to reflect the time and effort given).

The Employ.ed on campus programme gives current students the opportunity to undertake a paid summer internship with a range of university departments. Participants take part in a programme of support: induction day, interim and end of placement event. They also complete an Edinburgh Award to enhance their employability, self-reflection, and learn how to articulate their experience to future employers. The Careers Service offer substantial online interview support for shortlisted applicants to help refine their technique and boost their confidence. They also assist recruiting managers in developing attractive job adverts, removing jargon and limiting essential criteria.

The Careers Service, in collaboration with a range of University of Edinburgh departments, offers a structured internship programme – Employ.ed on Campus – for 2nd, 3rd and penultimate year undergraduate students during the summer. Particular efforts have been made to promote Employ.ed internships to WP students, and steps taken to mitigate existing barriers to access include part-time vacancies and flexible hours.