Policy, Research and Insight Graduate Intern - #149185

About the role:
Please note this is initially for a 1-year fixed term contract.
We’re looking for a graduate with strong analytical skills, a keen interest in education policy, and a proactive mindset to join us as our Policy, Research and Insight Graduate Intern.
This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of the London & South East Education Group, contributing across our College, Multi-Academy Trust, and new Charity Foundation, LASER. The role is well suited to someone looking to gain hands-on experience in policy analysis, research, and strategic insight within a complex and values-driven education setting.
About the role
Working closely with the Policy and Research Director, you’ll be supporting the Group CEO and Executive Team by scanning for developments in education policy and summarising key issues. You'll provide briefings, help shape responses to government policy, and support internal strategic projects through research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
You’ll also have the chance to help develop a research culture across the Group, contribute to strategy discussions, and support high-profile events, communications and relationship management with external partners.
What we’re looking for
We’re after someone with a relevant degree (or equivalent apprenticeship), strong written and verbal communication skills, and a genuine interest in education, policy or public service. You’ll be methodical, well-organised and comfortable handling detail, but also able to take a broader view and draw out key insights. If you’re good at turning research into action, spotting opportunities to influence change, and building relationships across a wide range of people, we’d love to hear from you.
This is an excellent development role for someone early in their career, offering exposure to senior leadership and the chance to help shape real-world education strategy.

About The Company
London South East Academies Trust’s growing network currently comprises thirteen mainstream, special and alternative provision academies, an outreach service and a music hub, located across Bromley, Bexley, Lambeth and Surrey.

Our schools are committed to raising attainment, encouraging aspiration and supporting social mobility for every single pupil, throughout their educational journey and beyond. Our holistic, yet personalised approach, enables children to flourish and achieve their full potential, regardless of their background or learning needs.
As a Trust, we provide outstanding support and leadership development opportunities for staff across our schools. We encourage the sharing of best practice, together with high-quality, cost-effective central services to ensure success for all.

Our Trust sits within London & South East Education Group, which also includes a multi-campus further and higher education college (London South East Colleges) and a charity (LASER Education Foundation). This unique set-up provides excellent progression pathways for our pupils, as well as extensive development opportunities for staff.
Our outstanding teams are dedicated to achieving positive outcomes for all. We know that education has the power to change lives – and by adding further expertise and diversity to our thriving Trust, we can provide even more opportunities for our pupils, our schools and our communities.

Equal Opportunities
London South East Academies Trust is fully-committed to being an Equal Opportunities Employer, and creating a diverse and inclusive workspace, free from discrimination and harassment. We welcome and encourage applications from all, regardless of race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion/belief, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, parental status and/or marital/partnership status.
As a Disability Confident – Committed employer, we will offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meet the minimum job role criteria.
If you have accessibility needs and/or require any adjustments for the application and interview process, please let us know.
If a suitable applicant applies, we may close the advert sooner than the closing date.
If you have any specific enquires about the role, please email us at [email protected]

As the Trust supports a number of children and vulnerable adults, all staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Accordingly, all staff will be subject to an ‘Enhanced’ DBS (formerly CRB) check, along with a Children’s Barred List check if in regulated activity. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove to be unsatisfactory to the Trust. Self-disclosure will be required as part of the recruitment process. If you fail to make a full disclosure or provide sight of your DBS certificate then your offer of employment is likely to be withdrawn. The Trust's DBS policy covers the recruitment of ex-offenders which is available upon request.