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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Contribute to impactful projects that improve life in the West Midlands.
- Company: Join the West Midlands Combined Authority, dedicated to regional growth and community improvement.
- Benefits: Paid internships, hands-on experience, and a chance to build your professional network.
- Other info: No CV needed; just showcase your ideas and passion through short answers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining insight into regional government and policy development.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a genuine interest in the West Midlands.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Do you enjoy solving problems? Do you like sharing ideas and seeing them shape real change? Would you like to help make the West Midlands the best place to live, work, and visit? Join us at the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). We are the regional authority for the urban West Midlands, working every day to improve life for the people who live and work here, from creating good jobs and better transport, to tackling inequality and supporting greener growth.
We are recruiting for two paid, eight-week internship cohorts in 2026:
- Spring Cohort: April to May
- Summer Cohort: July to August
Successful Interns will be based at our offices at 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham, with at least three days per week in person. Start dates will be confirmed once pre-employment checks are complete. You must be available for the full duration of your chosen cohort.
What you will be doing
You will contribute to real projects that matter. Depending on your team, you might:
- Research key policy issues affecting the region
- Help communicate with communities and decision-makers
- Draft responses to consultations
- Support events and engagement activities
- Contribute to the delivery of projects and programmes
- Work collaboratively to turn ideas into action
No two days will be the same, and you will be supported throughout your time with us.
The teams
Opportunities are available in:
- Policy and Integration
- Research, Intelligence and Inclusive Growth (Summer 2026)
What we are looking for
We want thoughtful, curious people who want to make a difference. You do not need to be a specialist or have prior experience in regional government. We care more about your thinking, motivation, and willingness to learn. We would love to hear from you if you can demonstrate:
- Strong communication skills, written and verbal
- Creativity in presenting ideas clearly
- Motivation and a positive attitude
- Ability to work independently and with others
- GCSE-level education or equivalent
- A genuine interest in the West Midlands
We particularly welcome applications from groups underrepresented in our sector, including women, ethnic minorities, and care leavers.
What you will gain
Hands-on experience on meaningful regional projects, insight into how regional government works, experience in policy development, project delivery, and stakeholder engagement, greater confidence and clarity about your future career, and a professional network across WMCA and partner organisations. Your contribution will help improve the lives of people across the West Midlands.
How to apply
We have kept the process simple. No CV or cover letter is required. You will answer three short questions with a maximum of 500 words each. Use examples from school, volunteering, part-time work, hobbies, or other experiences that show who you are and how you think:
- Problem-solving: Tell us about one problem or area you would like to improve in the West Midlands (Birmingham, Black Country, Coventry, Solihull). How would you address it using only ideas and effort, without spending any money?
- Reflection on the region: Describe a moment when you felt proud of or frustrated by the West Midlands. What happened, and why does it stay with you?
- Learning and impact: Tell us what you hope to gain from this internship and how your work could make a difference.
You will also be asked to indicate which internship cohort you are interested in and available for:
- April to May 2026 (Spring Cohort)
- July to August 2026 (Summer Cohort)
Introductory Webinars
To help you get started, we will be hosting an introductory webinar ahead of the application deadline. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the application process, hear from current team members, and ask any questions you might have. We are holding the webinars on:
- Thursday 26 February between 14:00 and 15:00
- Monday 2 March between 18:00 and 19:00
You can sign up for the webinar by clicking this link.
What happens next?
Applications will be reviewed by our team. If successful, you'll be invited to an interview at our Birmingham offices week commencing 16th March.
Anonymised recruitment
Our process is anonymised. Shortlisting is based on the information you provide in your application form. Please complete each section carefully; it's your opportunity to showcase your skills and potential.
Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI can be a helpful tool for structuring ideas or improving clarity. However, we’re interested in your thinking and your voice. Your application should reflect your own experiences and perspective.
Reasonable adjustments
If you have an accessibility need, disability or condition that means you may require adjustments to the application or recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment Team at careers@wmca.org.uk.
Why join WMCA?
WMCA is focused on delivering real change for the region, creating jobs, improving transport, supporting greener growth, and ensuring everyone has access to safe, affordable places to call home. We put people and place at the heart of everything we do. Your contribution will matter and you’ll see the impact of your work.
Spring and Summer Internships in Birmingham employer: West Midlands Combined Authority
Contact Detail:
West Midlands Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Spring and Summer Internships in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the WMCA and its projects! Research their current initiatives and think about how your skills can contribute. This will help you stand out in interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of real-life examples where you've tackled challenges, whether in school or during volunteering. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your creativity and motivation.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Attend the introductory webinars and engage with current team members. Ask questions and make connections; this could give you valuable insights and even a foot in the door when it comes to landing that internship.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to be part of the WMCA team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Spring and Summer Internships in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: We want to hear your unique voice! When answering the questions, let your personality shine through. Share your thoughts and experiences honestly, as this will help us get to know the real you.
Use Real Examples: When tackling those questions, think of specific moments from school, volunteering, or hobbies that showcase your problem-solving skills and creativity. Real-life examples make your application stand out and show us how you think!
Stay Focused on the Questions: Each question is designed to gauge different aspects of your thinking and motivation. Make sure you address each part clearly and stay on topic. This shows us that you can communicate effectively and understand what we’re looking for.
Check Your Work: Before hitting submit, give your answers a good read-through. Look out for any typos or unclear phrases. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and commitment to making a great impression!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Midlands Combined Authority
✨Know Your Region
Before the interview, brush up on key issues affecting the West Midlands. Understanding local challenges and opportunities will show your genuine interest and help you articulate how you can contribute to real change.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific problems in the region that resonate with you. Think about creative, cost-effective solutions you could propose, as this aligns perfectly with what the WMCA is looking for in an intern.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Whether it's your written responses or verbal communication during the interview, strong communication skills are essential for this role.
✨Be Yourself
The WMCA values motivation and a positive attitude over prior experience. Be authentic in sharing your experiences, whether from school, volunteering, or hobbies, to demonstrate who you are and how you think.