15 Summer Internships for High School Students in The UK

If you’re a high school student planning to spend your summer gaining real experience, a summer internship can be a good way to do it. Internships let you work in real settings, understand how organizations function, and apply what you’ve learned in school to practical tasks. 

The UK has a wealth of opportunities for high school students across many fields. From hospitals and research labs to design studios and law firms, you can find internships that match your interests and future goals. These programs often run for a few weeks during the summer and focus on giving you direct exposure to real work environments. 

Completing an internship can make a clear difference when you apply to colleges. It adds real examples to your resume and application essays, showing that you’ve taken initiative to explore your interests early. You’ll also have a clearer sense of what fields you might want to study in the future.

To help you find the right opportunity, we’ve put together a list of 15 summer internships for high school students in the UK! If you’re looking for more prestigious or specialized opportunities, check out our other guides here!

15 Summer Internships for High School Students in The UK

1. Immerse Education’s Career Insights Pathway

Location: London, New York, San Francisco, and Tokyo

Cost: Varies according to program. Financial aid available

Application Deadline: Multiple summer cohorts with rolling admissions

Program Dates: 2 weeks during the summer

Eligibility: High school students aged 15-18 

The Career Insights Program offers high school students an introduction to professional environments across multiple industries. As a participant, you can expect to engage in hands-on projects with established companies and connect with industry experts through interactive workshops. You'll also visit operational sites, including offices, factories, and headquarters. At the end of the program, you’ll present your work to industry professionals. You can explore career paths in subjects such as medicine, engineering, law, business, journalism, fashion, and more. The program also includes weekly 1:1 career coaching sessions and sessions where you will receive personalized feedback. You can find more details about the application here!

2. FDM Apprenticeship Programme

Location: Sheffield Hallam University (Sheffield, UK) or Northeastern University London (London, UK)

Cost: Fully funded, apprentices earn a monthly salary

Dates: Three-year programme combining degree study and ongoing client placements, specific dates vary by cohort and sector

Application Deadline: Rolling applications throughout the year

Eligibility: UK residents aged 16 or older, able to meet entry requirements for a degree in Digital and Technology Solutions, interested in tech/IT

The FDM Apprenticeship Programme is a paid degree apprenticeship in Digital Technology Solutions that lets you build your tech career while earning a university qualification. You’ll spend four days a week working on IT projects such as software development, IT support, cybersecurity, or automation within FDM and on client sites. The rest of your time is dedicated to academic study at Sheffield Hallam or Northeastern University, giving you the perfect balance of theory and practice. Along the way, you’ll receive a salary, personalized mentorship, and career coaching to help you strengthen your communication, teamwork, and technical skills.

3. Ladder Internships

Location: Remote (virtual internship; based anywhere, including the UK)

Cost: Varies by program type; financial aid available (partial/full scholarships)

Dates: Multiple cohorts year-round (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

Application Deadline: Depends on cohort. The deadline for the Summer cohort is typically in May

Eligibility: Current high school (and gap-year/undergrad) students who can commit ~10–20 hrs/week for 8–12 weeks

Ladder Internships is an eight-week online program where high school students work with high-growth startups across fields such as technology, AI, health tech, marketing, journalism, and consulting. You’ll be matched with a startup and take part in projects that contribute to the company’s goals. During the internship, you’ll work directly with company managers and receive support from a Ladder Coach who guides your progress. Most participating startups are growing quickly and have raised over a million dollars in funding. The program ends with a final presentation where you share your work with your host company.

4. Nuffield Research Placements

Location: Various settings across the UK (universities, research centres, laboratories, museums, field sites)

Cost: Free; eligible students may receive a £200 bursary.

Dates: About 4 - 6 weeks in summer (usually July - August), including 2-3 weeks of online independent study followed by another 2-3 weeks of hands-on research work at a placement site.

Application Deadline: Varies by region, typically mid-April each year

Eligibility: Students aged over 16, in Year 12 (England & Wales) or S5 (Scotland). Applicants must also meet some academic requirements and social criteria.

Nuffield Research Placements allow you to partner with professional researchers during your summer break and work on a real-world project in science, computing, engineering, maths, or quantitative social science. You’ll begin with an online study module that strengthens your data, research, and digital skills before joining a university or research centre to collaborate on a live research question. You’ll create a report and research poster, attend optional workshops and webinars such as Python programming, and even have the chance to earn a Gold CREST Award or enter the Big Bang competition. 

5. Royal Observatory Greenwich Astronomy Work Experience

Location: Royal Observatory Greenwich (National Maritime Museum), London

Cost: Free (voluntary placement)

Dates: One week with Royal Observatory astronomers in summer

Application Deadline: April 4 (dates may vary by year)

Eligibility: Students in Year 10-13 (aged ~14–18) in the UK.

Through the Royal Observatory Greenwich Work Experience, you’ll spend a week exploring what it’s like to work in astronomy and science communication. You’ll join the Observatory’s astronomy team, contribute to projects such as writing night-sky guides, evaluating education sessions, creating social media posts, or even interviewing astronomers. During your placement, you’ll get behind-the-scenes access at the National Maritime Museum, where the Observatory’s team is based during refurbishment. You’ll learn how scientific outreach works in practice, develop skills in communication and research, and gain insight into careers in astronomy, museums, and STEM.

6. JPMorgan & Chase Work Experience Program

Location: UK JPMorgan offices in London, Bournemouth, Glasgow, Edinburgh (UK)

Cost: Fully funded

Dates: Week-long summer placement (plus virtual and in-person sessions), exact dates vary by year/office

Application Deadline: The application deadline for the UK Summer Internship programs is November 2

Eligibility: Students aged 14-16 (Years 10-11 in England / S3-S4 in Scotland) with an interest in finance or technology

The JPMorgan Chase Work Experience Programme invites you into a fast-paced week of professional discovery where you’ll explore roles in finance or technology within offices in London, Bournemouth, Glasgow, or Edinburgh. You’ll start with a virtual workshop on CV writing and interview skills, then spend in-person sessions meeting bankers or developers, touring the office, working on a business challenge, and networking with professionals. You’ll finish with a follow-up virtual session to consolidate your learning and reflect on your experience. 

7. Imperial College London Y12 Work Experience Programme

Location: Imperial College London campus, South Kensington, London, UK

Cost: Free (fully funded; materials and lunch provided)

Dates: 5 days in summer (stream dates vary by department)

Application Deadline: Typically early March. Applications open in January with closing dates dependent on the stream and year

Eligibility: Current Year 12 students at UK state schools who can commute daily to the London campus

The Work Experience Programme at Imperial College London gives you a real taste of life as a researcher. Over five days, you’ll join one of Imperial’s departments from Bioengineering and Physics to Mathematics or Climate Science, and explore university-level research through lab visits, workshops, and hands-on experiments. You’ll also attend sessions on UCAS applications and personal statements, guided by current Imperial student ambassadors who share what it’s like to study there. The program ends with a mini academic conference where you’ll present your findings to peers and mentors, leaving you with both confidence and insights into a future in STEM.

8. British Airways Work Experience & School Programmes

Location: British Airways head office and operational sites across the UK, including London (Heathrow), Cardiff, and Glasgow.

Cost: Free 

Dates: Placements typically last 3 - 5 days in summer (exact scheduling varies by year; plus 1-day Insight Days)

Application Deadline: Rolling basis. Applications open three times a year (September, January, April). The deadline varies by location.

Eligibility: Students from Year 10/S4 and above (typically aged 14-17+), UK residents with a valid passport able to travel to the placement location

The British Airways Work Experience programme gives you a look into what it’s like to work in aviation and business. Over 3 - 5 days, you’ll join a BA department such as engineering, customer service, logistics, or business operations with tours, activities, and Q&A panels with professionals. You might help plan a customer service project, solve an engineering challenge, or take part in workshops that strengthen your teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Alongside your mentor, you’ll also gain insights into the industry through BA’s Speedbird-Z platform and connect with employees who share their career journeys.

9. HSBC UK Work Experience Programme

Location: Various HSBC offices in the UK

Cost: Free

Dates: 1 week, July 7 - July 11 or August 4 - August 8

Application Deadline: February 25 for London, and March 4 for other locations.

Eligibility: Students in Years 10-13 (or equivalent) in the UK, who are motivated to explore banking or financial services.

The HSBC Work Experience Programme gives you an immersive week in the heart of the global banking world, where you’ll explore how one of the world’s largest financial institutions operates. You’ll spend your placement learning from professionals about teams such as operations, global markets, early careers, and emerging talent, and you’ll take part in workshops to develop your employability skills in things like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. You’ll gain insight into the wide range of career paths available at the bank, not just traditional finance roles but also technology and business operations. At the end of the week, you’ll have a certificate of attendance and a valuable experience to reference on your CV and in university or job applications.

10. UCL Pre-University Online Course for High School Students

Location: Virtual

Cost: £990 (includes tuition, course materials, and virtual trips)

Dates: Two weeks, July 20 - July 31 

Application Deadline: June 15

Eligibility: High school students aged 16 - 18 who are non-native English speakers.

The UCL Pre-University Online Course for High School Students invites you to engage in two weeks of rigorous online learning at a world-leading university. You’ll experience three-hour daily live classes in academic English, research skills, and subject modules drawn from the sciences, arts, and social sciences. Through guided sessions and virtual projects, you will develop your ability to write a short report, present your ideas, and conduct academic research just like a UCL student. You’ll connect with peers from around the world and take optional virtual tours of London’s museums and historic sites to broaden your cultural understanding. Though not an internship, the course offers valuable mentorship and project-based learning that builds your critical thinking, communication, and independence universities look for. 

11. Lite Regal Medical Internship and Shadowing

Location: London-based placements; Typically GP Surgery, Central London Clinic, or London Hospital

Cost: £1,750 - £7,000 (non-residential) or £2,250 - £9,000 (residential, with University of London accommodation; meals and transport not included).

Dates: Available year-round (1 - 4 week durations)

Application Deadline: Rolling admission; apply at least 8 weeks before the intended start date

Eligibility: Students aged 17+ (minimum Year 12), aspiring to study Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Psychology, or related healthcare fields. Open to UK and international students with English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5-6 or above.

The Lite Regal Medical Internship and Shadowing Program places you in London hospitals and clinics, where you’ll observe practicing doctors treating patients and gain authentic clinical experience. Over one to four weeks, you’ll explore specialties such as cardiology, neurology, or surgery, depending on your interests. You’ll also attend anatomy and suturing workshops at the University of London facilities, receive mentorship from medical professionals, and earn reference letters from your supervising doctors. If you join the residential option, you’ll live in University of London halls in Bloomsbury, giving you easy access to your placement and London’s medical landmarks. By the end of the internship, you’ll not only have a certificate and strong references but also the confidence, communication skills, and insight that strengthen future medical school applications.

12. King’s College London Pre-University Summer School

Location: King’s College London, London, UK

Cost: 1 week: £3,195 (£3,095 if applied by Jan 30); 2 weeks: £6,180; 3 weeks: £9,375 + Application fee of £65

Dates: Session 1: July 6 - 10; Session 2: July 13 - 17; Session 3: July 20 - 24; Session 4: July 27 - 31 

Application Deadline: April 10

Eligibility: UK high school students aged 16-17

The King’s College London Pre-University Summer School lets you spend 1-4 weeks at the heart of London exploring subjects like Law, Business, Marketing, Medical Science, or Neuroscience while living on campus. You’ll attend live lectures and participate in small-group activities, including debates, role-plays, and workshops, taught by university tutors and supported by student ambassadors. While not an internship, the program provides mentorship, collaborative learning, and hands-on activities that simulate real academic and professional environments. You’ll also receive guidance on preparing for university, such as writing personal statements and understanding applications, while building your academic confidence and subject knowledge. The residential option places you in single en-suite rooms at the university’s Stamford Street Apartments, where you’ll meet peers from around the globe and access campus labs, libraries, and social events.

13. Notre Dame London Study Abroad Program

Location: Fischer Hall near Trafalgar Square (Classroom) and Conway Hall (Student housing), London, UK

Cost: USD $8,750 (covers tuition, housing, and meals); need-based scholarships are available

Dates: Two weeks, July 5 - July 19

Application Deadline: January 21

Eligibility: Rising US high school seniors (age ≥16 by program start)  with a valid passport and an interest in global studies and culture

The University of Notre Dame London Summer Study Program gives you an immersive two-week experience that blends academics with real-world exploration in one of the world’s most historic and global cities. You will study how London became a leading world capital by tracing its imperial past and cultural evolution through daily classes, expert lectures, and field visits to landmarks like the British Museum and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Each day focuses on a new era and neighborhood, helping you build a layered understanding of the city’s history while developing analytical and research skills similar to a global studies internship. Taught by Notre Dame faculty at Fischer Hall near Trafalgar Square, you will live in Conway Hall on the South Bank and take part in museum visits, theater tours, and group projects that conclude with a final presentation. 

14. PwC New World New Skills Work Experience

Location: Various PwC offices across the UK

Cost: Paid work experience (fully funded), a stipend is provided

Dates: Four days in August

Application Deadline: Rolling basis

Eligibility: Students in Year 12 (England & Wales), Year 13 (Northern Ireland), or S5 (Scotland); typically attending a state school and meeting one or more social mobility criteria

The New World New Skills Work Experience Programme at PwC is a four-day paid opportunity that introduces you to professional life inside PwC’s UK offices. The program is designed for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and includes interactive sessions led by professionals across teams such as Audit, Consulting, Risk, and Technology. You take part in workshops that build practical skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, while networking with employees at various levels. The program provides hourly pay, free lunches, travel coverage, and a PwC laptop for use during the week.

15. NHSBT Work Experience Programmes

Location: Bristol (Filton) and London (Tooting), UK

Cost: Free

Dates: 5 days in June and July, varies by location

Application Deadline: Not specified

Eligibility: Students aged 16 to 18 (Years 12-13) interested in scientific or laboratory careers; must be sponsored by their school.

The NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) Work Experience Programme is a one-week placement for students aged 16 to 18 interested in healthcare science. Held at NHSBT centres in Bristol and London, the program gives you exposure to teams involved in blood donation, transfusion, and organ transplant services. You’ll visit labs, meet professionals, including scientists and donor care specialists, and take part in hands-on sessions focused on biomedical science, medicine, and nursing careers. The experience helps you understand how science supports patient care while building teamwork, observation, and communication skills.

One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here, check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.

Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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