Internships

Building diverse pathways into politics through long term training, placements, and career opportunities for underrepresented young people.

The Patchwork Foundation launched its political internship programmes to increase diversity within the political workforce and build a sustainable pipeline of talent for participating organisations. Now in their fifth year, the programmes support young people from underrepresented backgrounds through year long training schemes, summer placements, and professional development opportunities, helping to create a broader range of careers within political and democratic institutions.

What your support enables

Participants gain first-hand experience of working within institutions at the heart of Westminster, developing a deeper understanding of what a career in politics looks like in practice.

During the programme, interns rotate across a range of departments and teams, from political delivery to administrative support and beyond. This provides insight into the wide variety of roles that exist within these organisations, as well as the day to day work of professionals delivering political and public service functions across the UK.

Alongside this experience, participants develop key skills needed to succeed in professional environments, including research, communication, time management, and teamwork. They also learn directly from experienced professionals at the top of their fields, gaining valuable guidance on how to begin and progress a career in politics.

Throughout the programme, the Patchwork Foundation provides ongoing pastoral and professional support to help participants thrive in new and challenging environments. In collaboration with partner organisations, we deliver tailored induction programmes and structured rotations to ensure interns are fully prepared from day one.

We also provide regular training and development sessions designed to strengthen soft skills such as public speaking, critical thinking, and networking in a professional context. One to one support is available throughout the placement, ensuring every participant has consistent guidance and encouragement.

As a result, participants leave the programme with both practical experience and the confidence to pursue careers in politics. With over 60 participants across our programmes to date, alumni now work across political parties, Parliament, the Civil Service, and wider democratic institutions.

Alumni Spotlight

“As a former Patchworker who learnt about the inner sanctums of politics through a Masterclass several years ago, it’s very special to now use some of that knowledge to help guide my journey as a Member of Parliament. Getting involved in a Patchwork Masterclass and a visit to No10 played an important part of me realising that I could have a seat at the table, and that the political world was open to me too. I’m now determined to pay that forward to ensure that the young people of today have the confidence, the knowledge and the insights to be the politicians of tomorrow.”

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Internships

At Patchwork Foundation, we believe that talent exists everywhere. Our internship programme connects young people from underrepresented backgrounds with paid opportunities at some of the most respected organisations in politics, policy, and public affairs.

We currently offer two summer internship schemes, both paid and based in London.

Flint Global Internship

In partnership with Flint Global — a leading business advisory firm and Patchwork partner since 2018 — this internship places you at the heart of where government and business meet.

Over 8 to 12 weeks, you will be based in one of Flint’s practice areas, working directly with experienced colleagues and clients across sectors including digital and technology, utilities, health, and financial services. You will contribute to client engagements through research, analysis, policy development, and project management, with regular coaching and mentoring throughout.

This internship is paid at London Living Wage and is based in Flint’s London office.

This opportunity is open to current and recent participants of the Patchwork Masterclass Programme.

CCHQ Summer Internship

In partnership with Conservative Campaign Headquarters, this six-week summer internship places you at the heart of Westminster, giving you hands-on experience across multiple departments of the Conservative Party.

You could find yourself working alongside the research team, supporting the press office, gaining experience in digital and social media, or getting an insight into what it takes to run a political party from within the Executive Office. The scheme is designed to give you the skills, experience, and networks to pursue a career in politics, public affairs, consultancy, and beyond.

This internship is paid at London Living Wage and is based in person at the CCHQ London office.

This opportunity is open to young people aged 19 to 22 from underrepresented backgrounds.

Applications

Applications for both schemes for the current cycle are now closed. Keep an eye on this page and our social media channels for updates on future opportunities.

For any questions about our internship programme, please contact us at [email protected].