Hosting an Icon Intern is a rewarding way to support the next generation of conservation professionals. By joining the Icon Internship Programme, you’ll help emerging practitioners gain essential skills and experience while contributing to the future of the profession.
Icon provides full support throughout the process - from advertising and recruitment to managing contracts, payments, and ongoing guidance for both the intern and the host organisation.
Each internship is a structured placement, usually lasting up to 12 months, designed to help recent graduates develop practical knowledge and confidence in the workplace. Interns receive a tax-free bursary, and both they and their supervisors are supported by dedicated Icon Intern Advisors, who meet with them regularly to ensure positive progress and professional development throughout the placement.
What is an Internship?
An internship is a structured work placement, typically lasting up to 12 months (occasionally longer), that enables a student or recent graduate to gain practical skills and experience to support their transition into paid employment. Interns must not be used to replace salaried staff.
Remuneration for any Icon Intern must be at least £17,000 per annum (or pro rata, if appropriate).
How It Works
Icon provides support every step of the way - from recruitment through to ongoing guidance for both hosts and interns during the placement.
- Recruitment: Icon leads on advertising and promoting your internship and supports the interview process to help you select the right candidate.
- Payments: Icon manages the formal contracts and payments to interns for the duration of the internship.
- Intern Advisors: Our team of experienced and dedicated Intern Advisors meet with you and your intern on a quarterly basis throughout the placement to:
- Support the intern’s professional development and monitor their progress against the Icon Professional Standards.
- Provide guidance to the supervisor to ensure they have the support they need.
Costs
The programme fee covers the full package of support, including the intern’s bursary, recruitment, Intern Advisor support, and the overall management of the programme
Funding
Icon is not able to provide the funding to support internships, however we would be pleased to work with you and offer support with a funding application.
However, there are many funders who have provided vital support to this programme over the years. A good place to start is by checking out the Heritage Craft Funders Network list of funders to see if your project would be eligible.
Want to know more?
Get in touch with us by emailing [email protected]. We can then arrange a time to talk and run through the programme and any questions you have.