Achieve your ambitions and secure paid, valuable work.

Craft your career path with SouthWRK

SouthWRK is here to assist you in successfully applying for and securing valuable paid work opportunities.

We’re committed to ensuring that your potential shines.

  • Aged 18-24
  • Undergraduate or recent graduate
  • Under-represented background
  • Home address in Southwark
Application form

CV and application reviews

Our experts will meticulously review your CV and applications, providing constructive feedback to help you present your skills and experiences effectively.

It’s not just about building your CV; it’s about building your confidence.

Personalised career coaching

No two journeys are the same. Our one-on-one career support is personalised to your goals, helping you map out your path to career success and improve your employability.

Your career coach is your compass, providing unwavering support as you navigate the challenges.

Access expert resources

On a digital platform created just for you, you can access invaluable online resources and articles with one purpose in mind – your success.

It’s a virtual library at your fingertips, brimming with insider tips and knowledge to supercharge your career journey.

Valuable paid work 

If you’re an eligible Southwark student or graduate, we can help you secure a valuable paid opportunity at a top employer.

SouthWRK offers at least 6 weeks of paid work, allowing you to gain real-world experience and financial stability as you begin your career journey. 

It’s completely free to sign up.

We’ve partnered with social enterprise Gradcore to provide free, personalised support. If you’re an eligible Southwark student or graduate, we can help you improve your employability and secure a valuable paid opportunity at a top employer.

You will also have access to:

  • Career coaching
  • Mock interviews
  • Platform with variety of helpful resources 

The aims of the programme are to help you explore your career options, develop key skills to, widen your professional network, and most importantly – secure an internship/placement.

I want to secure an internship

FAQs

Who is eligible to take part in SouthWRK?

We welcome applications from students/graduates who meet all the following criteria:

  • have a Southwark home address (family home, not term-time accommodation)
    • the areas within Southwark are Borough, Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Walworth, Peckham, Camberwell, Peckham Rye and Nunhead, and Dulwich
  • have attended UK state schools only
  • are aged between 18-24
  • are currently an undergraduate in full-time study at a UK university (you graduated no more than 12 months ago)

You should also meet at least one of the following:

  • neither parent went to university
  • you were eligible for free school meals at any point
  • you’ve been looked after by the local authority
  • you have a disability or special educational needs (SEN)
How do I register for SouthWRK?

Completing the registration survey will help us provide the best possible support to you. It will also give you access to our dedicated digital hub for the programme.

Your details will be treated in the strictest of confidence and will only be used for the purpose of supporting you. Not quite sure about something? Please email mona.vadher@gradcore.co.uk and we’d be happy to answer any questions you might have.

What’s the application process?

You will receive completely free-of-charge support, including:

1. Check eligibility: You can see the full eligibility criteria and application here.

2. A quick chat to get to know you: In order to learn more about your career ambitions, a team member from SouthWRK will contact you for a chat. 

3. Access resources and support: While we match you with an employer, you can start accessing helpful resources on our digital platform, Gradspace, such as career coaching and industry guides.

What support will I receive?

You will receive completely free-of-charge support, including:

  • CV and application reviews
  • Mock interviews and feedback
  • Access to expert online resources and articles
  • 1-2-1, personalised career support
  • Career coaching with experienced recruiters
  • At least 6 weeks of paid work
Who is funding SouthWRK?

SouthWRK is an an extension of Southwark Council and its continued dedication to the local area. It’s entirely funded by the council, making it completely free to those who will benefit from it most. 

We’ve also partnered with social enterprise Gradcore to provide free, personalised support. 

SouthWRK supports young learners to secure valuable paid work and connects employers with talent. Not just an internship scheme, the priority is improving the employability and prospects of young people.