Vacancies

Internships

We are currently accepting applications for September/October to Christmas 2012.

If you wish to be considered, please send your CV and one page covering letter to Anthony Rowlands, Director, Events and Administration, CentreForum, 6th Floor, 27 Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9BU.

Applications will also be accepted by email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

CentreForum interns have an opportunity to develop policy research and writing skills, and can participate in the wide range of activities undertaken by a public policy think tank.

We invite applications from people from all disciplines. A strong interest in politics and policymaking is important, as is a sense of humour.

Expenses will be provided at a rate of £20.00 a day.

Past interns have gone on to various careers including policy researchers, parliamentary assistants, civil servants and public affairs consultants.

What past interns have to say:

Clara Davies

University of York

Autumn 2011

I applied for an internship at CentreForum after graduating from the University of York with a BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. I knew that I wanted to do something in the political sphere but was uncertain about what avenues were available to me, or desirable. I hoped that an internship would give me the introduction I needed. 

My internship at CentreForum was a very enjoyable experience. I was given a variety of topics to research, ranging from the effects of the 50p tax rate on the UK economy to euthanasia, and also wrote pieces for the CentreForum blog. CentreForum hosts a wide range of events with interesting speakers, a couple of which I helped to coordinate giving me both experience of the organisation of such events and the pleasure of attending them. There are also multiple opportunities to attend events being held by other organisations and freedom to go to any select committee meetings that appeal to you. There are administrative tasks that need to be completed, but this is greatly appreciated and invariably compensated with cake. Finally, and probably most importantly, the office is full of friendly interesting people who are welcoming from the very beginning and make you feel valued. 

I strongly recommend applying for a CentreForum internship if you want to gain experience in social policy or think tanks.

Clara is now working as a business operations manager in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Shayan Moftizadeh

Cambridge University

Summer 2011

I joined CentreForum for a summer internship after finishing my second year at university.  As a student of Social and Political Sciences, I have always been interested in developing my knowledge around policy and research, and thought that CentreForum would give me just the perspective I wanted. My internship began around the build up to the Liberal Democrat Summer Conference, so many of my responsibilities were geared towards putting information together and helping to organise and report back on events for the Conference. I was lucky enough to attend all five days of Conference, and had many exciting opportunities to discuss important issues with prominent politicians, including the Deputy Prime Minister, as well as gaining an insight into the way that parties work and are organised. I learnt many things and developed my organisational, management and networking skills.

My responsibilities in the office also included proof-reading and reviewing prospective publications (which in the process equips you with a great deal of knowledge about a wide range of issues), as well as assisting research and collecting statistics. The environment in the office is extremely warm and welcoming; everyone at CentreForum is very kind, friendly and encouraging of you to try your hand at anything that interests you. I had an amazing time during my internship and am very grateful to CentreForum for giving me the opportunity to experience everything that I did. I wholeheartedly recommend an internship at CentreForum for anybody who is interested in politics and policy and would like to gain some experience in these areas.

Ben Weisz

Cambridge University

Summer 2011

My internship with CentreForum came between the second and third years of a philosophy degree at university, and was the perfect way to find out more about how Westminster works. Over the summer, I got to put my research skills to the test, writing blog posts, press releases, briefing notes and even my own report on media plurality. From the start, I was given meaningful tasks with real responsibility for the success of CentreForum, but thanks to the friendly office team, was never left without support.

The summer of 2011 was particularly newsworthy, and it was fascinating to see how the office kicked into action to respond to the phone hacking scandal or the riots, and I got a real feel for how the connections between CentreForum, parliament and the media operated. The internship culminated with a stint at the Lib Dem conference in Birmingham, which was a great way to get to know everyone on a more social basis.

I'd definitely recommend a CentreForum internship to anyone who wants a hands-on, informative introduction to the workings of a think tank and how politics works more generally, in a friendly and supportive office environment.

Mark Lloyd

University of Manchester / Aberystwyth University

Summer 2011

I applied for an internship at CentreForum after completing my Master's degree in security studies and working with the police for a year. I saw an internship at CentreForum as a good opportunity to gain experience of policy research in Westminster, but I was surprised at just how much I was able to acheive during my time there.

I was contributing to the CentreForum blog from day one, which is a great way to gain experience for anyone interested in political journalism. During the three months I was able to author two research papers in full, one highlighting the impact of student visa changes on private higher education institutions and another on pension taxation. In addition, I contributed to research on the government's open public services agenda and early years intervention. Research often involved meeting with industry leaders and liaising with other think tank members which is a great way to build contacts and confidence.

The staff at CentreForum are very friendly, supportive and encourage you to follow your interests and develop new ideas. There is always someone with a different point of view ready to challenge you intellectually. With such a wide range of experience in a relatively small office staff are able to provide some great critical insight into your work and help you improve your research skills no end.

An internship at CentreForum isn't just about research; it also gives you a great opportunity to be involved in events with some of the most influential people in Westminster. During my time we had events involving Oliver Letwin, David Willetts, Michael Gove, Vince Cable and Danny Alexander. These events were a good way to gain an insight into how the policy process works and what role think tanks can play in shaping legislation.

My time at CentreForum really helped me develop both my abilities and my CV. I have no reservations whatsoever in recommending such a route to anyone looking to get involved in Westminster and public policy more generally.

Mark now works as a policy adviser at the CBI.

Sian Dvorkin

Warwick University

Autumn 2010

After graduating from a Masters degree in international security, I applied for a position with CentreForum hoping to learn more about public policy. My time at CentreForum far exceeded my expectations and through research, discussion and events organisation, provided me with the knowledge and skills required to progress further in my career.

I was able to research several areas of public policy including green energy and regional growth, but my main research focus was supporting a paper on outcome-based payments in offender rehabilitation. Independent research was also encouraged, and I contributed a piece to the CentreForum blog as a result.

The busy events programme meant that I got to meet and hear several senior members of the Government. I helped arrange a keynote speech by the Prime Minister on tuition fees and was a part of the many fringe events CentreForum put on during the Autumn conference season. Attending the Liberal Democrat party conference was a particular highlight.

I felt like part of the team from day one. The CentreForum staff are full of advice and experience and one of the most enjoyable aspects of my internship was the frequent and lively office discussion. I always felt like my opinion was valid and I learnt a lot. An internship at CentreForum comes highly recommended.

Sian currently works for Cicero Consulting.

Charles Hotham

Oxford University

Autumn 2010

My internship at CentreForum was an ideal transition between work and a Masters degree, as I sought to change the direction of my career. I had been teaching in a London comprehensive for five years but was ready to do something different, hopefully in the broad field of politics, using a Masters degree at LSE in History and International Relations as a springboard. Working at CentreForum over the summer, before starting the Masters, allowed me to use some of my expertise in education to work on a report on school accountability, whilst experiencing the very different context of a think tank.

I was made to feel comfortable and welcome in CentreForum's office straight away: very much part of the team in which everyone's ideas are encouraged and discussed. It was great to feel that my contributions were valued by working from the outset on a project on which I could use my previous knowledge. Quickly I was encouraged to write articles for the blog and the press on the project. I was lucky that my internship coincided with party conference season and so enjoyed a fascinating and exhausting week supporting the organisation of events, listening to speakers and of course 'soaking up the atmosphere' well into the night.

My experience was such that I was encouraged to take on another, part-time, internship with a think tank during my Masters and have maintained my relationship with CentreForum through the initial project I worked on. I cannot recommend working with CentreForum highly enough.

Tom Gault

Cambridge University

Autumn 2010

I applied for an autumn internship at CentreForum during my final year of university. As I had hoped, the internship was a fantastic opportunity for me to gain vital experience of public policy making and the political world inside Westminster, while honing my skills and helping me decide where a future career in politics could lead.

The small office and very welcoming staff provided an excellent environment for a graduate to work in. This, when coupled with the number of high profile events which CentreForum held at the Liberal Democrat party conference and afterwards, and their location in St. James's park, ensured that I gained a plethora of experience in Westminster politics.

The variety of work available also provided me with an excellent introduction into public policy making. From organising the attendance for events to detailed research into papers on migration and green growth, this internship helped me to widen my skill set and develop my own research; culminating in my own article on the CentreForum blog and heavy involvement in a paper on public sector employment.

I thoroughly recommend an internship at CentreForum, whether to develop your existing skills or to provide you with a greater understanding of careers in British politics.

Tom is now a parliamentary researcher.

Charlotte Gerada

LSE

Summer 2009

My internship experience at CentreForum gave me an enriching insight into the world of public policy, and was very valuable to my career-goal of being involved in British social policy making. I was able to engage in a variety of activities including research, statistical analysis, and event organisation, providing me with an in-depth experience of the think-tank world.

In the office I supported research on the new points based immigration system; researching how the new system operated, the implications for incoming migrants, and political parties' different points of view on the issue. I also had the opportunity to write for CentreForum's blog FreeThink on the implications for population policy of new figures showing Britain's mini baby boom.

In preparation for the Liberal Democrat Conference I was actively involved in the organisation of the 22 Fringe Events that CentreForum held designing invitations, inviting guests and helping to host the events which included leading speakers from various fields. The Conference experience itself was unique and rewarding finally seeing everybody's hard work materialise. I was busy attending meetings, events and helping on the CentreForum exhibition stand, where I even met Nick Clegg himself!

My highlight has to be the office itself every member of staff at CentreForum has a rich and inspirational background, and it was great getting a real insight into a liberal think-tank that has a fantastic buzz about it! I will always remember my time at CentreForum fondly, and I would encourage anyone interested in getting experience at a hard-working and involved think tank to apply for an internship. I am very grateful for the experience and knowledge that I gained.

Harriet Patterson

Cambridge and Kings College London

Spring/Summer 2009

I embarked on three months with CentreForum after having finished a Masters in International Conflict Studies, in order to gain an insight into public policy, a practical understanding of domestic politics, and more of an idea of what my next steps might be. My time at CentreForum far exceeded my expectations, by providing me with not only an extremely instructive experience, but also an incredibly enjoyable one.

While at Centreforum, my time was divided between events organisation, office administration, and research support. The opportunity to get involved in such a variety of events (ranging from small roundtable debates to CentreForum's fringe programme at the Lib Dem Spring Conference), and in a wide range of incredibly relevant research, makes for an extremely stimulating and exciting experience.

Thanks to the small size of the office, and the accommodating nature of the CentreForum staff, interns can get an insight into every aspect of the organisation, and personal preferences are taken on board to ensure a mutually beneficial experience for everyone. My particular desire to try my hand at research, and personal areas of interest, were encouraged. Consequently, I felt I had a real say in shaping my own experience with CentreForum.

For someone with an enquiring mind, who is keen to gain an insight into every aspect of a think tank where interns feel valued and appreciated, I cannot recommend an internship with CentreForum enough.

James Callendar

St John's College, Oxford University.

Autumn 2009

After graduating in the summer of 2008 I completed a three month internship at CentreForum. My degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics had given me a thorough academic grounding in the problems of social policy and I was keen to apply what I had learned.

Arrriving at the office in the midst of a fully-fledged financial crisis meant that the work in the economics unit was exciting and relevant from day one. It was a thrill to be working on political and economic developments as they were happening in 'real time'! My time at CentreForum was split between providing research assistance for the economics publications and assisting in the organisation of events. I was also able to contribute a number of pieces to the Centreforum blog, which meant I was able to devote some time to my own research interests. The location of CentreForum, in the middle of Westminster, meant that there were always any number of interesting talks and events to attend after (or during!) office hours.

The CentreForum internship programme is of great value. It provides fascinating and valuable experience of working in the public-policy sector in the context of a friendly and vibrant office. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and would recommend it to anyone interested in politics or social policy.

Laura Gibbon

University of Bristol and SOAS

Autumn 2009

I started my internship at CentreForum after I had finished studying for an MSc in International Politics at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). My undergraduate degree was in Philosophy and my understanding of domestic politics and the public policy world prior to my internship was limited, so I found my time at CentreForum invaluable.

During the three months I spent at CentreForum I was principally involved with providing administrative support for its events programme, including compiling invitee lists for roundtable seminars and researching potential speakers, and assisting with research on education and the credit crunch. I also helped out on-site at CentreForum's fringe event programme at the Liberal Democrat autumn conference, which was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my internship.

I would recommend an internship at CentreForum to anyone interested in gaining an insight into public policy.

Laura is currently working for the London School of Economics Events office

Susie Rushton

St Peter's College, Oxford University

Summer 2008

My weeks at CentreForum were divided mainly between research into a number of highly topical issues (including the credit crunch, failing primary schools and the impact of social networking sites on privacy) and preparation for the 24 events CentreForum were hosting during the autumn party conference season.

Both of these activities offered valuable insights into the world of politics and the policy making process. One of the highlights of my internship was undoubtedly the five days spent at the Liberal Democrat conference, which proved a fantastic opportunity to meet Parliamentarians and see party debates in action.

Ultimately, I applied for an internship at CentreForum in the summer of my second year at university to gain experience in the world of political research and public policy making. To others with the same ambition, I would recommend CentreForum as an intellectually stimulating, varied and very welcoming place to do this.

Zoe Smith

Cambridge University

Summer 2008

My internship with CentreForum was during the summer before my final year at university, and culminated in the Liberal Democrat conference. This was certainly a highlight, with opportunities to meet parliamentarians and hear them speak, as well as help with the (very hectic at times!) running of over twenty fringe meetings.

The contrast between the political theory I had been studying for my degree and the experience of day to day British politics and policy making was vast, but it opened up a whole range of new issues to think about and invaluable knowledge about the behind-the-scenes activities of Westminster.

The office has the buzz of being at the centre of liberal political debate and policy innovation, and was an exciting and interesting place to spend seven weeks.

The staff at CentreForum could not have been more friendly or welcoming towards their interns, and perhaps one of the most enjoyable parts of my internship were the informal office conversations on every aspect of politics. I leave better informed about everything from police pay scales, to FE college funding, the issues facing primary schools, the factors behind population projections, and even what I would be called if I had been named by Sarah Palin.

Chris Bose

Warwick University

Spring 2008

After graduation I was anxious to supplement my theoretical knowledge of policy making with some more practical insight; CentreForum proved to be the ideal environment in which to do this. In addition to helping to organize a range of seminars and events I was able to work on a series of research projects including; parental choice in education, migration and demographics, and using market mechanisms to achieve environmental goals.

This helped consolidate the research experience I took from university and is of great use in my current role as a Research Assistant for Lansons Public Affairs. The proximity of CentreForum to Westminster is a considerable advantage as it serves as an ideal base from which to observe Parliament. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with CentreForum, the highlight of which was going to Downing Street, albeit only as far as the front door!

The chance to work in a small team of bright and approachable individuals was as enjoyable as it was beneficial to my CV.

Chris is currently working for Lansons Public Affairs.

Dave McLaughlin

Durham University

Spring 2008

My internship with CentreForum helped me gain a clearer picture of what I wanted to do with my career, and gave me greater confidence in my research skills in a relaxed (but hard working!) environment.

I applied to work at CentreForum as part of my post-university attempts at discovering where I wanted a career to take me. Of these it was by far the most active and interesting, offering chances to get involved in the heart of public policy work. I provided research on two major projects, as well as many smaller pieces; got involved in organising events including at Bloomberg in the City and the Houses of Parliament; and was able to put all my university-acquired skills into practice - proving that they actually were useful!

Staging events had the added benefit of meeting influential people and developing my networking skills. Working in Westminster meant that I could attend Select Committee meetings in Parliament and other think tank events.

Among the benefits for me was being able to put my research skills to use on projects that will make a difference and have an impact in the 'corridors of power'. Working with such clever yet approachable people really helped me develop confidence in my research abilities, and has given me a solid base from which to further my career

Flynn Lund

Cambridge University

Autumn 2007

As a recent graduate, I was unsure in what direction I wanted to pursue my career although I knew I wanted it to be something to do with the public sector or public policy, so I applied to CentreForum as a 'stepping stone' into this area.

I was incredibly impressed at the scope of CentreForum's research and events and was lucky enough to help with the fringe events at the 2007 Liberal Democrat Party Conference in Brighton. Not only did we get the chance to have fish and chips by the seaside, but I was able to mingle with Paddy Ashdown and Vince Cable at their talk on 'Globalisation', as well as meet the top players in policy and public service.

I really enjoyed getting involved in research projects, both at the beginning when conducting literature searches and during the final stages of proofing and editing final drafts. It is brilliant to get to work with thinkers who are impacting political policy, and they are all so nice too (especially when you make them cups of tea.).

After my three months at CentreForum I not only felt proud of the events and research projects I had contributed to, but also had a clearer idea of what I actually enjoy and as opposed to what I thought I would enjoy. I've found I'm more pragmatic than theoretically critical, and so have applied to a management consultancy who work with the public sector. I really believe that my internship helped secure me a place on their graduate scheme.

Alice Aitken

Cambridge University

Spring/Summer 2007

After finishing my degree in English Literature last year I decided I wanted a change of focus and to work in the public sector. My internship at CentreForum provided me with the ideal opportunity to gain experience of working in the political sphere in a friendly and lively organisation. I was asked to undertake a whole range of different projects during my three months in the office, both research and administrative, so my experience was varied and interesting. I worked on a large number of research projects from education to multilateralism and saw policy papers at various stages of development.

Being involved with organising events such as the summer party and CentreForum's first trip to Scotland was extremely satisfying and also provided a unique chance to meet a large spectrum of people working in the political field. I was also encouraged to attend events at other think tanks and to visit Parliament whenever possible.

Overall, my time with CentreForum enabled me to improve my knowledge of public policy and to observe the workings of the political system at first hand. This has not only helped me to decide what I want to do in the future, but has also made it more possible for me to do it.

Alice now works as a researcher in Parliament.

Tom Copple

Edinburgh University

Spring 2007

Soon after graduating from university I spent 3 months undertaking an internship at CentreForum. It's a great introduction to the public sector, whether you're interested in politics, social affairs or public policymaking. I was quickly involved with several aspects of CentreForum's work - from event organisation, to background research and proofreading publications. I also helped update the website and did some blogging. The office is based in the heart of Westminster which is convenient for attending seminars, Parliamentary Committees and other events. I would highly recommend an internship at CentreForum. Not only will it improve your CV but you will also get some hands-on experience at a dynamic public policy think-tank, with a friendly office atmosphere."

Louise Wise

Warwick University & King's College London

Autumn 2006

My internship with CentreForum gave me exactly what I had hoped it would: hands on research experience in the field of public policy. During my three months with the organisation, the work I carried out was varied and interesting. I primarily assisted with projects on demography and welfare reform, but also got fully involved in event organisation, proof reading, and some basic office administration. I also had the opportunty to attend any external events that were of interest.

Overall, I found the experience extremely worthwhile. It was particularly interesting to observe the genesis and development of new ideas for future projects. An internship with CentreForum will provide you with the opportunity to work with some interesting and talented people and also, importantly, to build up valuable CV material. In short, i would strongly recommend an internship with CentreForum to anyone interested in pursuing a career in research and gaining an insight into policy formation and politics more generally.

Joanne O'Donnell

Pembroke College, Cambridge University

Summer 2006

In the summer before my final year at university I spent two months at CentreForum gaining insight into the political world. Although parliament was out of session during this period, at the end of my placement I was able to participate in the programme at the Lib Dem Conference, which was a highlight that I would certainly recommend.

During my time with the organisation I developed administrative skills but also had the opportunity to research family policy and issues related to climate change, both of which were highly topical. There was also the opportunity to be involved with the events that were organised and I was able to attend external events that were of personal interest.

My placement was extremely worthwhile; I was made to feel very welcome and highly enjoyed the whole experience. I would recommend an internship at CentreForum to anybody interested in exploring a career in politics or with a keen interest in the political world.

Laura Brandon

University of Sheffield

Autumn 2005

I began my internship at CentreForum after graduating from Sheffield University. I was unsure where I wanted to take my career and CentreForum enabled me to gain a plethora of experience: in research, event co-ordination, writing and editing all within the political domain.

During my eight weeks at CentreForum, I primarily undertook a research project on regionalism, preparing for, and contributing towards the new discussion website, freethink. Alongside this, I edited a pamphlet for a leading Lib Dem frontbencher and helped organise CentreForum's fringe events for the Autumn Conference.

The highlight of the summer was spending the week at the conference in Blackpool, writing reports on the fringe meetings and seeing lots of high profile politicians!

I would strongly recommend a CentreForum internship in order to gain valuable experience, pursue a career in politics and most importantly, have fun!

Laura now works as a Public Affairs Officer at the British Dental Association.