Bywaters’ Summer Internship Programme

At Bywaters, we are committed to sustainability and recognise the importance of fostering the next generation of environmentally conscious professionals. Our summer internship programme aims to support the London community and the wider education sector by equipping young talent with essential sustainability skills, which are crucial in addressing the climate emergency we face today. This programme aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Climate Action (SDG 13). By investing in future generations, we not only provide valuable experience for graduates but also contribute to achieving global sustainability targets.

Supporting the London Community and Education Sector

Bywaters launched the summer internship programme with two main objectives: to empower future professionals with the green skills necessary to combat climate change and to provide meaningful work experience that would help graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. As the demand for green skills grows, particularly in the recycling and waste management sectors, we believe it is our duty to contribute to the development of these skills in future generations. This initiative not only benefits the interns but also promotes sustainable practices across London.

Internship Responsibilities and Expectations

Our intern was given a significant role: working closely with our sustainability team on one of our largest contracts, the Wimbledon Championships. They were tasked with creating a comprehensive report that would help our clients improve their sustainability practices for future events. Their responsibilities included documenting activities in the lead-up to and during the championships and identifying areas for improvement that could be implemented in the following years.

Key Activities During the Internship

To meet the programme’s objectives, the intern was involved in several crucial activities:

• Pre-Event Site Visits: They conducted multiple site visits before the Wimbledon Championships to ensure that preparations were on track and aligned with our sustainability goals. They also provided assistance wherever needed.
• Staff Training: The intern was instrumental in delivering training to staff who would be on-site during the event, ensuring they were fully aware of best practices in waste management and recycling.
• On-Site Support and Feedback: Throughout the championships, they were present on-site to monitor compliance with sustainability practices and gather feedback from staff. This information was used to suggest improvements for future events.

Exceeding Expectations and Delivering Results

Our intern exceeded expectations by independently creating a detailed report on their findings and recommendations. They took a unique approach by focusing on the human aspect of waste management and recycling, rather than just the infrastructure. Their research and suggestions for reducing waste and increasing recycling rates demonstrated their proactive approach and commitment to sustainability.

How Bywaters Supported Intern Growth

At Bywaters, we believe in providing a supportive environment for growth. During the internship, we offered a comprehensive induction process to help our intern understand all aspects of our business. We encouraged them to identify areas where they could make a difference and supported them in implementing their ideas. This approach allowed them to gain a well-rounded understanding of our operations and feel empowered to contribute meaningfully.

Benefits to the Wider Community

The internship provided our intern with invaluable insights into the corporate world, helping them develop skills that will benefit them in their future career. They produced a tangible report that showcases their experience and knowledge, which they can present to potential employers. Moreover, their contributions have had a positive impact on the community by enhancing sustainability practices at a major event like Wimbledon, setting a new standard for future events.

Future Plans for Expanding the Internship Programme

Looking ahead, we are excited to expand our internship programme and offer more opportunities to young professionals. We plan to collaborate with educational institutions across London to provide more students with hands-on experience in sustainability. By expanding the scope of the programme, we aim to nurture a new generation of green leaders who are equipped to drive positive environmental change in our community.