At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into live briefs and creative projects while collaborating with a talented studio team.
- Company: Join Jones Knowles Ritchie, a leading name in the creative industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy free snacks, drinks, and a paid internship at London Living Wage.
- Other info: Open to all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups.
- Why this job: Kickstart your creative career with hands-on experience and specialist training.
- Qualifications: No specific degree required; just bring your creativity and passion.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 £ per hour.
Internship Overview
Sparks is a 15‑week paid internship programme created by Jones Knowles Ritchie (JKR) to help young people develop skills and open new opportunities in the creative industry. The internship will keep you busy from day one with live briefs, specialist training and collaborative projects.
Eligibility and Qualifications
You must be 18 years old or older. A creative degree or a similar creative qualification is not required, and applicants with such a degree should not apply. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups, including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those who identify as deaf or disabled, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.
Program Details
Duration: 15 weeks, paid at the London Living Wage.
Start date: 2nd September.
Commitment: You will work from our Shoreditch studio 4 days a week (5‑day per week commitment).
Benefits: Free tea, coffee, soft drinks, fruit and daily snacks.
Responsibilities
Work on live briefs and creative projects.
Participate in specialist training sessions.
Collaborate with the studio team on various initiatives.
Application Process
Applications close Monday 29th June 5pm. Successful applicants will be invited to interview by mid July. To apply, submit a response to a question on https://jkr-sparks-academy.webflow.io/ in any format you prefer – words, film, sketches, audio, photography, etc. We will judge based on the brightness of your ideas, not how perfect your execution is.
Sparks Academy 2026 employer: Jones Knowles Ritchie
Jones Knowles Ritchie (JKR) is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, particularly through its Sparks Academy internship programme. Located in the creative hub of Shoreditch, this 15-week paid internship offers invaluable hands-on experience with live briefs, specialist training, and collaborative projects, all while promoting diversity and supporting underrepresented groups. With benefits like free refreshments and a commitment to employee growth, JKR provides a meaningful opportunity for aspiring creatives to thrive in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sparks Academy 2026
✨Build a Killer Portfolio
Get your best graphic design work together and showcase it in a slick online portfolio. Make sure it’s not just about completed projects; include sketches and process work too to let potential employers at Jones Knowles Ritchie see your thought process.
✨Get Involved in Design Communities
Join online design communities like Behance or Dribbble where you can connect with other designers and even get feedback on your work. Attend local design meetups or workshops to make connections; you never know when you'll meet someone from Jones Knowles Ritchie!
✨Leverage Your University Resources
Don’t forget about your university’s career services! They often have connections to companies looking for interns in graphic design. Find out if Jones Knowles Ritchie has any partnerships with your school and chat with them for insider tips.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot an internship at Jones Knowles Ritchie, apply through our website for best visibility. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and passion for design, and show that you’re on top of the latest design trends.
We think you need these skills to ace Sparks Academy 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Portfolio:As you're applying for a graphic design internship, we can't stress enough how important it is to have a killer portfolio. Make sure you showcase a range of work that highlights your style, creativity, and technical skills. Include any personal projects, school assignments, or freelance work that demonstrate your design prowess.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let your passion for design shine through! Explain why you want to intern at Jones Knowles Ritchie and what you hope to learn. We want to see your personality, so don't be afraid to let your enthusiasm for graphic design and this opportunity speak for itself.
Tailor Your CV to Graphic Design:When creating your CV, focus on the relevant skills and experiences that align with graphic design. Highlight your proficiency in software like Adobe Creative Suite, and list any relevant coursework or projects. Don't forget to mention any awards or recognitions you’ve received—every little bit sings your praises!
Keep It All Visually Appealing:As designers, we know that presentation counts! Make sure all your application materials, from your CV to your portfolio, look polished and professional. Use consistent fonts, colours, and layouts to demonstrate your design sensibility right from the start. Remember, you’re showcasing not just your skills, but also your eye for design to Jones Knowles Ritchie!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jones Knowles Ritchie
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
Bring a well-organised portfolio showcasing your best graphic design work. Include a variety of projects that highlight different skills – think branding, digital design, and any personal projects that you're proud of. Be ready to discuss your design choices and the process behind each piece; it shows your thought process and creativity.
✨Master the Design Tools
Make sure you’re comfortable with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, or Figma. During the interview, they might throw some technical questions your way or even a design challenge. Showing that you can confidently navigate these tools will set you apart from other interns.
✨Express Your Passion for Design
As an intern, the interviewers are looking for your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. So, be sure to express why graphic design excites you and what inspires your work. Share any relevant experiences, like courses or projects, that showcase your eagerness to grow in the field.
✨Be Ready for a Design Challenge
Don't be surprised if they ask you to complete a quick design task during the interview. It could be as simple as coming up with a logo concept on the spot! Practise some brainstorming techniques beforehand, so you're ready to think on your feet and showcase your creative process under pressure.
