At famille, we believe that meaningful work creates value in both directions. That’s why welcoming a Sustainable Marketing Communications Intern through the University of Bristol’s SME internship programme has been such a rewarding experience.
The placement was made possible through the University of Bristol’s internship scheme, which contributed £1,000 towards the cost of employing a student intern. We’re grateful to the University for investing in programmes that help students gain practical experience while supporting organisations to nurture emerging talent.
From developing a clear role description, a fixed-term contract, and an onboarding process to providing regular support and opportunities for independent work, we wanted the experience to reflect the standards and expectations of a longer-term professional role. That preparation helped create an environment conducive to learning.
Sustainability communications in marketing
Over the course of the placement, our intern researched and wrote about a wide range of nature-based sustainability topics, including biodiversity and sustainable drainage systems. They explored how environmental features are communicated by translating technical subjects into engaging, accessible content, while considering implications for communications legislation to overcome greenwashing.
The placement also provided an opportunity to learn about the breadth of work involved in marketing and communications. Alongside developing their writing skills across different formats, from blog articles to social media content, they gained experience using tools such as Canva, Miro and Sked, while building confidence in an agency setting.
A two-way learning experience
While we are proud of what was achieved during the placement, internships should never be viewed as a one-way learning experience. As employers, we have a responsibility to create environments where students feel welcomed, supported and trusted to contribute meaningfully.
One of the most valuable aspects of the placement was the feedback we received. Our intern shared that the placement matched their expectations, that they were given both support and independence, and that they felt like a valued member of the team despite being with us for only a month. Importantly, the work reflected the role we had described at the outset and provided opportunities to develop useful, transferable skills.
That feedback matters. It helps us understand whether we are creating the kind of experience we set out to offer and whether the work we provide is genuinely contributing to a student’s development. It also reminds us that successful placements are built on trust, communication and a willingness to learn from one another.
Programmes like the University of Bristol’s internship scheme create opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world settings while bringing fresh perspectives, curiosity and new ideas into businesses.
We’re grateful to the University of Bristol for helping make this placement possible and to our intern for the enthusiasm, insight and thoughtful feedback they brought throughout their time with us.
We’re always open to conversations with students who are interested in marketing and communications and creating a positive impact through their work. Sometimes the most valuable outcomes of a placement are not only the skills developed, but the relationships built and the learning shared along the way.
University of Bristol and the SME Internship Scheme
The SME Internship Scheme provides opportunities for SMEs in the UK to work with our students. The fund supports organisations like famille whilst ensuring students get paid work experience. Anyone who is interested in finding out more can visit our employer webpage for details and the application process.
https://www.bristol.ac.uk/careers/information-for-organisations/sme/
To discuss future placement opportunities at famille please contact team@famille.uk