Step Programme Looks to Pair Businesses and Students

The Step programme is back! No, not the 10-thousand steps a day thing, sit back down.

This one is kind of like a dating site but for companies and students. The programme matches local organisations with undergraduates in their second or penultimate year of university for paid project placements during the summer holidays. Placements run 1 July – 23 August, with the final event on the 30 August.

Sponsored by Utmost International Isle of Man, the Step Programme works with young people studying a wide range of subjects and aims to match them with an organisation whose summer project is in sync with the student’s skill set and interests.

There are loads of benefits to your company. What are they? I’m so glad you asked. Well, you’ll have an enthusiastic undergraduate supporting the business as an additional resource for the cost of the living wage with the potential of then becoming a future employee.

Meanwhile, students involved get the chance to apply the theory and skills learned during their degree in a workplace situation, while getting paid. Those taking part are entitled to 4 days leave over the 8-week placement. It acts as a nice addition to the CV, and, as an added bonus, there are chances to win PRIZES (up to FOUR HUNDRED POUNDS) at the Step Final.

Need a little more background info? My goodness you’re thorough. What an excellent quality. Previous projects in the Step Programme have included:

· Manufacturing concept, design and development

· Setting up IT and/or accountancy systems

· Design and implementation of websites

· Marketing plans

· Analysis of production methods

· Environmental audits and follow-up work

Sound good? Brilliant. Now, if you are an organisation interested in getting involved, there are a few things you need to have in place otherwise you’re just going to end up disappointed, like you did when you found out the ‘plot twist’ in Lost. To take part in the Step Programme you need a set project for an undergraduate to undertake (don’t just be getting them to sort your dry cleaning), a suitable place for the student to work (preferably somewhere with a roof and toilet) and appropriate supervisory and management arrangements (to keep an eye on them. You never know).

Want to find out more about the Step Programme 2024? OF COURSE YOU DO. Get more info here and apply by 31 May!