Official UK Government Partner

Join our History Work Experience for Year 12

This immersive history programme offers practical workshops to sharpen your historical skills, with insights into research methods, heritage careers, and how we interpret the past. Scroll down to learn more.

Trusted by 12,000+ students
history work experience

The History Work Experience Programme

Applying to study history at university is more competitive than ever, with increasing numbers of students aiming for top courses each year. So how do you stand out? How do you show genuine enthusiasm for the subject? Our 5-day history workshop will help you demonstrate your passion, build valuable academic skills, and enhance your application-giving you a stronger chance of securing a place on a leading history degree.

  • Ages: 15 - 18 years old
  • Duration: 1 or 2 weeks
  • Class size: 10-12 students
  • Location | Central London
HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights of the programme

Scroll through the programme highlights.

Visit to Archives Students explore a working archive, handling original historical documents and learning how professionals preserve, catalogue, and interpret materials that bring the past to life.
Museum Curation A behind-the-scenes experience at a museum where students meet curators, examine artefacts, and design their own mini-exhibitions to understand how history is presented to the public.
Archaeology in Action A hands-on session where students take part in an archaeological dig simulation or visit a real site, learning excavation techniques and how to interpret physical evidence from the past.
Telling Stories Uncover the stories hidden in historical sources and learn how to turn evidence into compelling narratives.
Plan Your Path

Choose from a 1 or 2 week programme

Pick a date that suits you and kickstart your career in history today.

Pricing

History work experience 2025 packages

Whether you choose 1 week or 3 weeks, we’ve got you covered.

1 week
Rising Talent £1799.00

Kickstart your career with confidence


  • I week including:
  • Analysing sources & Telling Stories
  • Archive Visit
  • British Museum
  • Archaeological Fieldwork
  • UCAS Application
3 weeks
Future Leader £3999.00

Build a solid foundation for a brighter future


  • The Ultimate Immersive Experience
  • Included:
  • Week 1
  • Career & Life Skills Week
  • 1 Week Related Programme
  • Professional Networking
ALUMNI

Hear from Students

Get inspired and read firsthand feedback from students around the world on how they enjoyed the History summer school.

 

Miya
Miya
Switzerland SwitzerlandEnrolled in 1st week

I was glad that this work experience gave me a chance to be creative as well as academic. Designing the digital exhibition and presenting it at the end was a really interactive way to apply what we learned. I feel more excited about a possible career in heritage or museums.

Denis
Denis
Poland PolandEnrolled in 1st week

The day when we visited the British Museum was my favourite, being able to see what the curators did behind the scenes was fascinating. I have also learnt what the options are after doing history at university,  I never realised how many different jobs there are in history beyond teaching. I also feel much more prepared to write my personal statement now.

Jon
Jon
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I didn’t expect to enjoy the archaeology session as much as I did, digging and analysing finds was actually really fun. I felt that I was able to experience a whole side of history that I hadn’t considered before. At the end of the week I had more confidence that History is the right choice for at university!

Alana
Alana
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I loved how hands on the whole week was, especially at the archive visit where we got to handle real historical documents. The workshops made history feel so much more real and connected to the world around me. Also, I liked the opportunity to do pitch project at the end of the week, this really boosted my confidence.

Trusted by 12,000+ students
PARTNERS

Proud to partner with

Study Mind partners with a whole host of renowned institutions to provide you with a history work experience programme of the highest quality.

STUDENTS

Benefits for you

Boost your history applications today

Engage with real historical materials and activities—from source analysis to exhibition design—to gain practical experience and deepen your understanding of how historians work.
Hands-On Historical Practice
Develop core techniques such as critical thinking, source evaluation, and evidence-based storytelling to strengthen your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
Build Key Historical Skills
Showcase your dedication to the subject through immersive academic enrichment, helping your UCAS application stand out in an increasingly competitive field.
Boost Your University Application
Meet historians, curators, and experts from museums and archives who can offer guidance, share career insights, and support your journey into the world of history.
Connect with History Professionals
Gain a clearer understanding of the wide range of careers open to history students and decide whether a future in historical research, heritage, or related fields is right for you.
Explore Future Pathways
WHY CHOOSE STUDY MIND

History Summer School

1000s of students trust us

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THE PROCESS

Booking History Work Experience

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1Choose Your Programme

Select the history work experience course that suits your needs and enrol online quickly and easily.

 

2Receive Preparation Materials 

Receive exclusive pre-programme materials to enhance your learning and deepen your understanding of historical techniques and concepts.

 

3Complete Your Experience 

Engage in real-world writing projects, gain practical experience, and receive a certificate to strengthen your university applications.

 

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

You can find commonly asked questions below. If you have other questions, please contact us and we’d be happy to answer them.

Can this programme help me prepare for a history or related course at university?

Yes, the programme gives you a strong foundation in historical thinking and research. You’ll gain experience in analysing sources, curating narratives, and thinking critically. These are skills that will support your university studies and strengthen your UCAS application.

What historical skills will I develop during the programme?

You’ll build key skills such as source analysis, historical interpretation, and evidence-based storytelling. There’s also the opportunity to explore object based learning and digital presentation, which are becoming increasingly important in the field of history.

How is the content delivered, and will I receive any formal certification?

The course is delivered through a mix of workshops, discussions, and hands on activities led by subject specialists. At the end of the programme, you’ll receive a certificate which can be included in your UCAS application or CV to demonstrate your academic enrichment.

How many students are in a group?

There will be no more than 12 students in every programme group. This allows for small group teaching and workshops to ensure that you get the best out of your experience.

Does Study Mind have a bursary scheme?

As part of our widening participation scheme, Study Mind runs a bursary scheme for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These include full bursaries, as well as 75% and 50% bursaries. Applications are now being accepted and students will be informed from the 16th June if they have been accepted into a programme. This scheme is on a first come, first served basis. Students wishing to apply for the scheme will need to:

  • provide proof of receipt of Universal Credit, Free School Meals and Pupil Premium. 
  • Fill in the Bursary Application Form
  • complete an essay task.
  • provide a reference from a teacher (either head of sixth form or relevant subject teacher). This can be a character reference and include information on general work ethic and grades if applicable.

Students who partially meet this criteria are welcome to apply, and may be offered discounted places where free places are already assigned.

If you feel you may be eligible, kindly email [email protected] with evidence attached. Alternatively, you can contact us via phone at +44 (0) 203 305 9593 to discuss any questions you have. Please note, we will not be able to provide accommodation.

How can I customise my history work experience?

You can customise your work experience in several ways with two or three week options available:

Career & Life Skills: You can choose to add a second week with our Career & Life Skills week. In this experience you will learn all about digital literacy and creating your personal brand to market yourself to future employers with LinkedIn profiles and standout CVs. You will also learn about Financial Literacy, including loans, mortgages and taxes. You will navigate the world of AI and find out how to optimise it when using it to assist you with documents like your personal statement.

A Related Work Experience Week: You can also choose to extend your work experience by choosing one of our related programmes including Creative Writing or International Relations. Or if you're thinking about a different career as well, you can choose something completely different!

How can this programme help me decide if a career in history is right for me?

By exploring a range of historical approaches, like working with objects, documents, and exhibitions, you’ll get a real taste of what a career in history might involve. It’s a chance to try things out, see what interests you most, and think about your next step.

Are there any guest speakers or special events included in the programme?

Yes, you’ll hear from professionals across the heritage and academic sectors. They’ll share insights into their career paths, what their work involves day to day, and how you can begin to build a future in history

Will I have the opportunity to network with history professionals?

Definitely. You’ll meet historians, curators, and others working in the field who can offer guidance and answer your questions. These conversations can be a great starting point for thinking about future study or career opportunities.

What should I bring to the work experience week?

We recommend that students bring a notepad and pen to take notes (or a device to write on). In addition, students should bring a water bottle for the day. Students do not need to bring lunch as this will be provided but they might want to bring a couple of snacks to eat throughout the day. Please make sure these snacks are NUT FREE to take into account any students that may have nut allergies. Students on certain programmes such as Computer Science, will need to bring their own device. If you have not got a laptop, one will be provided. A specialised list will be communicated nearer to the time.

Where is the work experience located?

The work experience programme will take place in central London, with workshops being held in various locations. Industry placement days will be held in top London firms. Any excursions will take place in London or the surrounding areas. If excursions are held out of London, students will meet at a designated location and travel together.

Where is the accommodation?

Students opting for the residential programme will stay in Ramsay Hall, part of the University College London (UCL) campus. Students will stay in single occupancy rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Male and female students will be placed in separate floors.

When do I check in and check out of the accommodation?

Students will be able to arrive on the Sunday before the start of the programme. There will be a member of the Study Mind team to greet you. Students will check out on the Friday after the programme has ended. If you would like to book an extra night accommodation (e.g. Friday night), please contact us and we can arrange this for you (dependant on availability).

When will I receive a schedule of activities?

Students can expect to receive a finalised timetable of their work experience week by the end of May. Students will also receive further information on what to pack/bring and pre-preparation materials by mid June so that they can prepare themselves for the programme and get the most out of their experience.

ALL Can I attend two different weeks that aren’t together?

Yes, students can book weeks that are not consecutive. You can pick the weeks that are best for you. If you would like more support in booking weeks, please contact us.

ALL If I book more than one week, what happens at the weekend?

If you are a student who has booked a residential stay for two or three weeks, activities will be arranged for the weekend. Previous excursions have included a day trip to Cambridge, shopping in London and London sightseeing. Details of the exact programme will be sent by the end of May.

If you have not booked accommodation, the work experience week will end on Friday.

How do you ensure the programme is a safe space for all students?

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where all students feel confident in expressing their creative ideas. Our team ensures that the programme is a safe and welcoming space, and we address any concerns promptly to maintain a positive atmosphere for everyone.

Is the History programme suitable for students with additional learning needs or disabilities?

Yes, the programme is designed to be accessible and inclusive. If you have specific needs, just let us know ahead of time so we can make any necessary adjustments to ensure you feel supported throughout.

What support is available if I have questions or concerns during the programme?

What support is available if I have questions or concerns during the programme?There’s a dedicated team on hand throughout the course to help with anything you need, whether it’s academic support or general wellbeing. You’ll never be left to figure things out on your own.

How do you ensure student safety during the programme?

All sessions are conducted in a secure, structured environment. Our staff members are DBS-checked, and we adhere to strict safeguarding policies to ensure the safety and well-being of every student. If you’re staying in accommodation, staff are available 24/7, and university security is also on site at all times.

How do I book, and what are the entry requirements?

Booking is easy! Simply select the programme, choose your desired dates, and complete your booking through the website. The programme is open to students aged 15-18, and no prior experience is required. If you’re an international student, a good level of English is essential to fully participate in the programme.

Does Study Mind offer any additional support after the programme ends?

Yes, we continue to support you even after the programme ends. We offer guidance with UCAS applications, personal statement writing, and career advice.

How does this programme compare to traditional history work experience?

Traditional placements can be limited in scope. This programme offers a more structured and engaging experience, with practical activities, expert guidance, and a deeper dive into what it’s really like to study and work in history.

Who are the professionals leading the History programme?

You’ll be taught by experienced professionals from across the history world: academics, curators, and heritage experts. They’re all passionate about their fields and keen to help you explore yours.

What makes Study Mind’s History programme unique?

It’s the combination of academic depth and real-world experience. You’ll go beyond the classroom to explore how history is researched, presented, and shared, giving you valuable insight and skills you won’t find in a typical school setting.

DOWNLOAD A BROCHURE

See how this experience can transform your life

Gain real-world experience and kickstart your future today

  • Gain real-world, hands-on experience
  • Enhance university applications and career goals
  • Experience life as a university student
  • Connect with experts to boost future opportunities
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