STEP
(Shell Technology Enterprise Programme)

What is it?

STEP is the UK's leading provider of undergraduate project-based support for small businesses. The programme allows you to employ bright, talented undergraduates within your company to work on a specific business or technical project. Today's students have wised up to the fact that they need to learn about business before they graduate. Many have top-level technical and communications skills that could help solve a problem or develop a new opportunity for your business.

Who can apply?

You need to operate as an independent business with under 250 employees (or be a charity or community organisation); have a project of a business nature which can be completed by a student in eight weeks; can commit the necessary resources to supervise the project, and provide the student with an insight into business.

How much does the company pay?

Students are paid a weekly training allowance of £165, free of tax and National Insurance, for an eight-week summer project. Depending on local circumstances, you may be eligible for a subsidy. In addition to this, commercial companies will be asked to make a contribution to the student's travel expenses.

When can you apply?

The main STEP Programme runs for eight weeks during the summer. For 2002, the start date is Monday 1st July. They are now accepting applications for the 2002 programme in Yorkshire and Humber.

A full eight-week block is the ideal period of a STEP project, however if you need someone for a longer, or shorter, period at other times of the year, they can help. Some STEP Solutions placements are available outside the summer period. These are of variable duration (from four weeks up to one year) and can be fitted in around your specific business requirements. STEP can also help you find undergraduates who are available for a full year as part of their University industrial training (commonly called 'sandwich' courses).

Further details

• Sheffield
Rebecca Welsh
University of Sheffield Careers Service
Tel: 0114 222 0961
Email: r.welsh@sheffield.ac.uk

• Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley
David Evans
Enterprise Support Associates
Tel: 01709 579 888
Email: david@esaonline.co.uk

• Business Link South Yorkshire
(Acts as a promoter of the scheme):
Tel: 0114 2012500
www.blsy.com

• www.step.org.uk