21.05.07
Hobsons has been selected as DfES managing agent to deliver an exciting project that will give Chinese graduates the chance to experience working and living in the UK
The Graduate Work Experience Programme aims to give Chinese graduates a greater understanding of the UK, its culture, people, society and way of life. It also aims to create an enduring bond between the UK and China, with future mutual economic benefit when these graduates become tomorrow’s business leaders.
Reciprocal exchange
In the longer term, the Programme will include a reciprocal element, with UK graduates being given the chance to experience working and living in China.
The scheme will see 200 Chinese graduates, aged between 21 and 30, placed in full-time paid employment with UK companies for between 14 and 52 weeks. Recruitment will commence in June this year, with the first graduates arriving in the UK in September and October this year.
Meanwhile, Hobsons will secure appropriate 14- to 52-week work graduate placements with employers.
UK universities to act as mentors
Up to six UK universities will be engaged to support and mentor the graduates for the duration of the scheme. The first element of this will be to conduct a two-week orientation programme for the newly-arrived graduates. Following the orientation programme, candidates will be introduced to the host employers.
Hobsons will provide pastoral care for the graduates throughout their stay in the UK. Its in-house team will provide 24/7 advice and support on issues such as accommodation, work placements and travel. At the end of the exchange, Hobsons will assist the graduates in making arrangements for their return to China.
Linking education and business
Natalie Mudd, Managing Director, Hobsons UK, comments:
‘We are delighted to have been awarded this exciting contract. The Programme will draw upon the expertise of various Hobsons businesses; our enrolment management solutions, our experience of corporate recruitment, and our end-to-end recruitment services. We feel that the project fits perfectly with our position in the market – providing links between education and business. Therefore, we are confident we have the right services, skills and people to ensure the success of this Programme – both this year, and in the future.’
Further information
Please contact Paul Clark, Commercial Director, on 020 7958 5082