What does the SMF do?

Our new Aspiring Professionals Programme attracts high-achieving Year 12 students interested in exploring top professions and organisations and offers them the chance to be mentored by a professional in the career area they are interested in and the opportunity to undertake a summer internship in their chosen sector. In addition, we provide a programme of advice to support them through the university application process.

We offer these supports because we want to enable bright students from less priviileged backgrounds the opportunity to inform themselves about their career and university choices, and empower themselves to make the right career decisions at the right time.

Eligibility Criteria:

• In Year 12 / Lower Sixth
• In receipt of Education Maintenance Allowance
• In possession of at least 5 As at GCSE
• Predicted at least ABB for A-level (or equivalent for other qualifications)

How would my organisation benefit from offering internships?

For employers, offering an internship to a Social Mobility Foundation student is a rewarding and easy way to help address the social problem of diversity in the workplace. All Social Mobility Foundation students have high academic attainment, and are from less privileged backgrounds. The opportunity to host a talented student and watch them develop over the course of an internship placement has been valued highly by SMF internship providers in the past. To see what they have said about Internships, visit our Testimonials page.

What does mentoring involve?

SMF mentors are matched with a student interested in their career sector and will communicate with them over a dedicated and secure website over a 12-month periods. Mentors offer advice and guidance on their profession, higher education or study skills. We ask for only a 15-20 minute commitment per week and we will offer training, pointers and support to help mentors maximise their mentoring relationship. You will have the opportunity to meet your mentee

What do I have to do?

We are always welcome new organisations that would like to participate in the APP. If your organisation is interested in providing internship opportunities, mentors or hosting careers events, please email app@socialmobility.org.uk for more details.