WCVA’s Explore Internship programme Catherine Stephens-Ward, Internship Programme Co-ordinator

Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), is the umbrella body for the Third Sector in Wales, supporting and advising charitable organisations. Established Explore voluntary Internship Programme in Funded by the Big Lottery until A Pan Wales programme. Introduction

Providing quality, flexible work placements, to bridge the gap between academia and work and a response to rising unemployment. Showcasing the Third Sector as a challenging and rewarding careers choice. Developing Third Sector organisations with input of new ideas and expertise, leading to improved local economy. Aims of the Programme

 Structured, project-based voluntary placements  Short-term and part-time with flexible commitment  Opportunity to take ownership of a project  Graduate level  Accessible to all What is an Explore Internship?

How the programme works Create Internship- Responding to needs of Charity/University Advertise through catalogue, websites, network, social media catalogue Facilitate open application process. Empower applicants. Provide support, a reference and enable reflection

Offering a wide range of Internships Business Finance & Fundraising EnvironmentICT Media Marketing, Communications & Events Social Care & Education Research, Publishing & Journalism Human Resources

Examples of Internships Business Feasibility Study, Business planning, Database Development, Graphic Design, Promotional Film producer, Photography, Event Organisation, Social Media review, public art trail development, Education Assistant, Facilitating training sessions, Archiving, Policy review, Evaluation & Monitoring, Community Engagement Research, writing case studies, newsletter publishing, volunteer recruitment review, HR benchmarking project, PC Game developer

Apply and develop skills & demonstrate competencies Self Motivation Commitment Initiative Entrepreneurship Agility Being networked Problem solving Decision making Resourcefulness Collaboration Communication Leadership

Who we work with Third Sector organisations (charities/ non-profit/ SMEs) Universities Employment agencies Volunteer Centres Job Centre Plus Welsh Government

Why do a Third Sector Internship? Take ownership of a project and add real value! Apply, develop and test skills/knowledge Test out career options without the long term commitment Build portfolio and CV Gain a valuable reference Explore a diverse and rewarding sector

Some stats Interns placed!

What Interns say..... “The internships have all gone splendidly well, I've genuinely enjoyed the people I've met as well as the projects I've created. The Internships were very flexible, allowing me to study full time as well as handle a part time job, so I would recommend people not to worry about handling an internship while studying.” DavidDavid, Intern from University of South Wales “The prospect of leaving university and entering a difficult jobs market was daunting, but the range of opportunities within the Explore Internships catalogue was really encouraging and the application process was straightforward. My internship was an invaluable experience, enabling me to develop my skills and confidence in a supportive environment. I now have a job with Youth Cymru!” Rachel, Intern from Cardiff University “I took early retirement last year but was concerned about keeping motivated. The internship with VCS has been ideal. I’m so pleased this programme exists!” Kevin, Retired

How can I find out more? Website: (go to Volunteering) Facebook: Twitter: Catherine Stephens-Ward, Internship Programme Co-ordinator WCVA, Baltic House, Mount Stuart Square, Cardiff, CF10 5FH