CITY, University of London’s senior employer engagement adviser, Wendy Browne, believes that, given the current economic climate, it is essential that universities ensure a ready supply of highly skilled graduates to fill the graduate positions available, to help the economy prosper.
City’s Micro-Placements Programme is an award-winning social mobility initiative which aims to place over 300 students from diverse demographics, including low socio-economic backgrounds, into short-term work projects that will benefit local businesses.
“The objective is to assist business operations whilst enhancing students’ core employability skills,” says Wendy of a programme that aids in City’s community engagement and looks to form unique links between business and professions.
Candidates go through three months of competitive recruitment, demonstrating the skills and level of commitment they will bring to their host organisation, before undertaking training to ensure they make the most of the opportunity. Here’s what you need to know about getting involved.
What are Micro-Placements?
Short-term projects that last between two and five weeks between June and August 2018.
Focussed on career-exploration to encourage students to think outside their main degree discipline given the competitive nature of the graduate market.
The scheme is open to all businesses, from multi-national corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Why are they unique?
The programme forms part of a Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) initiative which aims to close the employment rate gap.
With endorsement from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, as this supports two of their 17 Global Goals (community engagement and social responsibility), it is the only Micro-Placements Programme in the country to be corporately sponsored.
Why host a Micro-Placement?
The project may be self-contained or form part of a larger, ongoing scheme which can solve in-house business problems. It’s easy; we do all of the recruitment for you, based on your specific skill requirements. The impact you’ll be making on the student’s employability skills development will be immense, and would be completed at minimal cost.
It’s also flexible and doesn’t take up too much time; the opportunity can be two to five weeks long, full-time or part-time. There is potential to extend opportunities if required.
You’ll be recognised: employers receive a certificate of participation from City’s Careers Service (as part of the sector-wide HEFCE project) and will be invited to an end-of-programme awards ceremony.
Last but not least, you will enhance your own Corporate Social Responsibility programme.
I’m interested, what do I do now?
Email Wendy at [email protected] to register your interest or if you have any further questions.
