UKHO Internship pilot programme launched in conjunction with University of Exeter
Twenty interns joined a variety of divisions in June, after successfully being selected to join the UKHO on either 12 week or 12 month internships.
The purpose of the internship programme is to provide school leavers, undergraduates and graduates with an opportunity to gain experience in the workplace through participating in projects or tasks which support our business.
The interns have found there are great personal benefits in taking up this opportunity.
As University of Exeter student Binu explains “The work itself was challenging yet I was able to successfully complete what I set out to do because of the support I received from my line manager and the rest of the team. I was able to achieve more than I expected, both in terms of my course related requirements but also in the learning that I shall take from the 12 weeks I spent with the UKHO.”
The placements have also been invaluable for developing confidence, skills, and identifying important skill gaps to fill. Ben took up a 12 month internship and was given his own project to manage and also had opportunities to get involved with other projects and other departments. “My time at the UKHO has been exciting and interesting. Furthering my knowledge and skills in GIS and has helped me develop a possible career path for the future. It’s been a real privilege to be part of such an experienced team and have gained invaluable experience during my internship, and I hope to keep in contact afterwards”.
For UKHO there are also great benefits. Some interns have brought with them new skills, for example Robyn joined DMGIC MAST (ME) team and used her expertise in Ocean Sciences to study the latest developments in Ocean front analysis. This will be used to assess update requirements to UKHO Environmental products for the RN.
Kellie James, People Development Manager in Technology Division explains that the interns have brought with them energy and a positive attitude to the tasks in hand. “Having an intern has been hugely beneficial to our team; Binu has brought a fresh perspective to our work and has made a valuable contribution over the 12 week placement. I had some reservations about taking time to train someone new for a relatively short period of time, but the benefits have far outweighed the planning and introductory phase. We had a specific remit defined for her and she has achieved above and beyond what we asked her to do. I highly recommend securing an intern if you are offered the chance.”
This month the UKHO will begin recruiting for interns to start work in June 2016, with the support of the University of Exeter’s Internships Team. For UKHO vacancies see www.ukho.gov.uk.
For help finding interns for your business, please contact Jo McCreedie, 01392 722617 j.mcreedie@exeter.ac.uk or visit www.exeter.ac.uk/employers/internships
