Companies in the North East could benefit from the skills and enthusiasm of a student or graduate to help boost their business, thanks to a scheme run by Newcastle University.

The Newcastle Work Experience programme has been set up to enable regional SMEs to recruit talented students and graduates at a subsidised rate. Organised by Newcastle University Careers Service, the project based work placements offer a cost effective and flexible solution to short term business needs while also bringing fresh perspective to the organisation. 

One company which has taken advantage of the scheme in the past is vehicle hire company Car2U. The company hired two students, Gongbao Wang from the School of Modern Languages and Rebecca Grant, a Marketing and Management student. Both students worked closely to redesign the company website, devise a marketing strategy, build the social media profile of the company and promote Car2u effectively.

Gillian Frary, of Car2U, said: “Once I starting working with the team at Newcastle University I found the whole process very easy. The students worked hard and were a real asset to our business for the time they were with us. The initial benefit to the business is the extra resource we gained to create an awareness of the business.

“Following the student’s contribution, extra revenue was generated and a specific target audience attained. It was a success all the way and I would definitely suggest other businesses take advantage of this.”

Marc Lintern, Director of the Careers Service at Newcastle University, said: “This is a great opportunity for both local businesses and our students. We provide a free recruitment service to match the right student with the right business so they can make a real impact. And of course this will be great for any student who is looking to give their CV a massive boost.”

Funding has been made available by Newcastle University to subsidise the summer programme.  This will allow SMEs access to the huge benefits of a NWE student for only £120 per week (plus VAT) for a 5 or 10 week full-time placement.  For further information please contact Kate Chambers at kate.chambers@ncl.ac.uk.

published on: 10 April 2013