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Official UK Government Partner

Join our Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp today!

This hands-on programme gives students real-world insight into finance through interactive sessions and case studies, building understanding of investment banking, financial markets, and core industry concepts for a strong foundation in a future finance career.

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What is the Investment Banking Summer Career Camp?

Our Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp is designed for high school students aged 15–18 who are interested in exploring a future in the financial world. This immersive programme introduces students to key areas such as financial markets, corporate finance, and the stock market. It helps them build a strong foundational understanding of how the industry works.

Through interactive workshops, case studies, and real-world simulations, students gain practical insight into how financial institutions operate. Guided by experienced professionals, participants develop key analytical and problem-solving skills. They also gain exposure to real-world finance scenarios.

  • Ages: 15 - 18 years old
  • Duration: 1 - 3 weeks
  • Class size: 10-12 students
  • Location | Central London
HIGHLIGHTS

What Will You Learn at the Investment Banking Summer Career Camp?

The programme gives you a strong introduction to finance. Here’s what you’ll learn:

Investment Banking FundamentalsLearn how investment banks operate, including mergers, acquisitions, capital raising, and deal structuring in real-world finance.
Financial Markets and Stock Market BasicsUnderstand how global markets work, how shares are traded, and how investors make financial decisions.
Corporate Finance and Business StrategyLearn how companies manage money, budgeting, valuation, and strategic financial decision-making processes.
Real-World Financial SimulationsTake part in case studies and simulations that replicate real financial decision-making scenarios.
Summer Analyst Experience IntroductionExplore tasks like research, analysis, and problem-solving to understand a summer analyst role.
Plan Your Path

Choose Your Programme Format

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

Tutors

Meet Your professional mentors

Our Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp is led by experienced professionals from the finance industry. From investment bankers to financial analysts, our mentors bring real-world expertise and industry knowledge. With small group learning, you will receive personalised guidance, build strong mentor relationships, and gain insights from their firsthand experience in the financial sector.

Jason Higgins
Head of Specialty Portfolio Solutions

Jason Higgins began his career at Lloyd’s in 1987, specialising in North American Fortune 500 property broking. He later became an assistant underwriter at Talbot syndicate before joining Marsh in 2000, where he worked on e-technology initiatives.

Richard Thomas
Broker at North American Property

Richard supports the full transactional process, including preparing market submissions, broking, managing contract wordings, endorsements, and renewals. His main focus is North American Property, and he also assists the Specialty Portfolio Solutions team in creating lineslips for North American SME business.

Nilesh B. Dosa MBE
Broker at North American Property

Nilesh B. Dosa MBE is a finance professional at EY, where he has built a distinguished career as a chartered accountant and leader in the industry. He graduated with a first-class degree in finance and has applied his expertise to banking and professional services, establishing himself as a respected voice in the finance sector.

Judith Corp
UCAS Advisor | English Teacher

Judith Corp is a highly accredited UCAS adviser with a wealth of experience in helping students to establish their goals and enjy success. Judith has served as Head of English, Head of Creative Arts and Head of 6th Form in grammar schools in Kent for many years and specialises in UCAS admissions and university preparation.

WHY STUDY MIND

Why High School Students Should Join a Finance Summer Camp

At our Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp, you won’t just be learning theory. You’ll get the chance to apply what you learn in practical settings, such as:

Professionals analysing investment banking charts and financial reports during a collaborative corporate finance simulation workshop.
Exposure to real investment banking scenarios
Students take part in guided simulations and activities that mirror real investment banking decisions. This helps them understand how financial markets and deals work in real-world situations.
Finance students reviewing stock market data and corporate finance charts to understand investment strategies and business growth.
Understanding stock market and corporate finance
Learn how shares are traded in global markets and how companies raise capital for growth. Students also explore key concepts in corporate finance such as budgeting, valuation, and investment strategies.
Team of aspiring finance professionals working on real-world financial analysis and business case study presentations.
Hands-on experience in real-world finance
Students take part in trading simulations using real market-style data to make investment decisions. They attend workshops with industry professionals and learn how financial companies operate in practice. They also complete case studies based on real businesses, analysing decisions and presenting solutions in groups.
Investment banking summer analyst simulation with financial reports, market analysis, and corporate finance research tasks.
Preparation for a summer analyst program
Students complete mock investment banking tasks such as research, financial analysis, and presenting deal ideas. They also practise interview-style questions and assessment exercises used in real finance recruitment processes. This helps them understand the expectations and workflow of a summer analyst role in practice.
Business professionals presenting financial data and analytical insights during a corporate strategy and decision-making meeting.
Development of analytical skills
Students strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. These abilities are essential for making informed financial decisions in real-world situations.
Student discussing academic opportunities during a biology summer camp career guidance session.
University application support
The programme helps students enhance their personal statements and demonstrate genuine interest in finance. It also shows commitment and early exposure, strengthening university applications.
Aspiring finance professional analysing live trading charts and stock market data in a modern financial environment.
Confidence in finance careers
By exploring real financial environments, students gain confidence in their abilities and career direction. This experience helps them feel more prepared for future opportunities in finance.
WHY STUDY MIND

Why choose our Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp?

Students receiving their certificate of completion.
1Certificate of completion

Students receive a certificate that can be used in UCAS applications, personal statements, interviews, and future career opportunities.

2Small group learning for personalised support
Business and finance professionals discussing corporate finance, budgeting, valuation, and strategic decision-making in a collaborative office environment focused on business growth and financial planning.
3Real-world finance projects and research experience

Students take part in a new research project alongside case studies, trading simulations, and practical finance-based activities that reflect real industry work.

4UCAS expert guidance and personalised feedback

Students receive structured feedback from tutors in a personalised feedback form, along with access to a UCAS expert booklet to support personal statements, applications, and university preparation.

Students collaborating on financial analysis and investment banking strategies in a modern corporate workspace, exploring mergers, acquisitions, capital raising, and real-world finance concepts during a professional summer career camp.
5Early exposure to investment banking careers

Students gain insight into financial markets and how the industry operates in practice, helping them understand future career pathways in finance.

6University and career preparation support

The camp helps strengthen university applications and prepares students for future study and finance-related careers through practical exposure and guidance.

WHY STUDY MIND

Built for Future Finance and Investment Banking Careers

  • Our programme bridges school learning and the world of finance through real-world exposure and practical financial activities.
  • Personal statement workshops help students build strong applications, while mock interviews prepare them for finance-related courses.
  • The experience includes case studies, trading simulations, group projects, and finance-related challenges.
  • Students develop teamwork, leadership, and communication skills while connecting with peers interested in finance careers.
Contact Us

location London Student Accommodation
UCL Ramsay Halls View Location
ACCOMMODATION

Where do students stay?

Experience London through safe and centrally located student accommodation designed to support a comfortable and structured learning environment throughout the programme. Students stay in secure accommodation at UCL Ramsay Hall (University College London), in a safe and centrally located area close to key parts of the city.
We offer:
– Private rooms and shared living spaces
– 24/7 supervision, security, and student support
– Meals and essential amenities included
– Organised excursions, city visits, and social activities
– Opportunities to connect with students from around the world

Contact Us
ALUMNI

What Our Students Say

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

 

Krish
Krish
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I thought the banking work experience was different to what I was expecting but It’s provided me with a new perspective on working in Finance. My favourite part was when we were discussing the different roles in the industry and breaking them down. I found it interesting when we talked about how your soft skills can maybe tether you to specific parts of the industry. I thought that was really insightful. 

Illia
Illia
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I found the banking work experience really useful. It gave me a lot of ideas of what I want to do next in my life. My favourite part was when we looked at financial details and statistics of a business and looked at portfolio management. I am now completely sure that I want to do Banking at university and I’d also like to take Economics.

Tania
Tania
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I found the banking work experience very beneficial and insightful. I came in here not knowing much business knowledge. I’ve found out numerous new things. My favourite moment was the workshop where we had to plan and design our own business. This was very beneficial and insightful. At the end we also audited the business which was really helpful because that what I want to go into and I got first hand experience of that. I would 100% recommend it to anyone. This week gave me a lot of knowledge and insight. If you want to pursue it at uni then I encourage you to take this course.

 

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Trusted by 452 students
Pricing

Banking & Finance work experience 2026 packages

Whether you choose 1, 2 or 3 weeks, we’ve got you covered.

1 week
Rising Talent £1799.00

Kickstart your career with confidence


  • Included:
  • Stock Analysis
  • Industry Visit: United Insurance Broker
  • Trading Floor Visit
  • IPO Life Stages
  • Private Equity
3 weeks
Future Leader £3999.00

Build a solid foundation for a brighter future


  • The ultimate immersive experience
  • Included:
  • Week 1
  • Week 2
  • Career & Life Skills
  • Professional Networking
HOW TO BOOK

How to Apply for This Programme?

Applying for the Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp is simple, quick, and fully online, making it easy for students and parents to get started.

1Choose Your Programme

Visit the official website and select the Investment Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp. Complete the online form with your details to begin the process.

2Receive confirmation and preparation details

Once your form is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email along with important pre-programme information and learning resources to help you prepare.

3Begin your summer experience

Join the programme, take part in real-world finance activities, and gain hands-on experience in investment banking, financial markets, and corporate finance.

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
Study Mind Banking and Finance Summer Career Camp Brochure
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.

Do I need prior experience in finance or investment banking?

No prior experience is needed to join the camp. The programme is structured to guide students from basic concepts to more advanced topics in a simple, step-by-step way. Students will learn key ideas such as financial markets, corporate finance, and investment banking through practical teaching methods.

What will I learn during the programme?

Students will gain a strong introduction to investment banking, stock markets, and corporate finance. The learning includes interactive workshops, real-world case studies, and financial simulations. These activities help students understand how the finance industry operates in practice.

Will I get hands-on experience?

Yes, the programme is highly practical and experience-based. Students take part in simulations, group projects, and real finance-related activities that reflect real industry scenarios. This helps them apply what they learn in a practical and engaging way.

How does this help with university applications?

The programme strengthens university applications by showing early exposure to finance and investment banking. Students receive a certificate and gain valuable experience that can be included in personal statements. It also demonstrates commitment and interest in a future finance career.

What skills will I gain from this camp?

Students will develop important skills such as analytical thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. They will also gain a solid understanding of financial markets and investment banking. These skills are highly valuable for future studies and careers in finance.

How can I customise my banking and finance work experience?

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

Second Week: You can continue your investment banking work experience with a second week, where you will delve further into the field. You will have the chance to learn about mergers & acquisitions, debt markets and alternative investments. You also visit a banking start up to learn firsthand what it takes to run a finance company.

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 Business & Entrepreneurship. Or if you're thinking about a different career as well, you can choose something completely different!

When should I apply for Year 12 work placements in banking?

Apply between October and February of Year 12, as many bank work experience programmes open applications in autumn for spring and summer placements. Early applications are encouraged as places fill quickly.

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 camps@studymind.co.uk 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.

What banks offer work experience?

Many banks may offer short-term summer banking work experience. Year 12 students may find this particularly useful. Here is a list of banks you could contact:

  • Barclays
  • HSBC
  • Lloyds Banking Group
  • NatWest Group
  • Goldman Sachs
  • J.P. Morgan
  • Morgan Stanley
  • Citi
  • UBS

What’s the difference between banking and investment banking work experience?

  • Banking work experience often refers to roles in retail or commercial banking (e.g. customer service, account management).
  • Investment banking experience involves exposure to high-level financial services like mergers & acquisitions, trading, and capital markets, often in fast-paced corporate environments.

What is the eligibility criteria for the work experience programmes?

In order to book this opportunity, you will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You are a student in Year 10, Year 11, Year 12 or Year 13 (ages 15-18)
  • You have a genuine passion for your chosen subject/career
  • You have obtained consent to attend from a parent/carer
  • You are able to attend one of the weeks advertised
  • While we do not assess for language understanding, you will need a good level of English (minimum equivalent of CEFR B1 or IELTS 4.0-5.0) to allow you to make the most of the programme

If you have questions about the above criteria, you can reach out to us via email at camps@studymind.co.uk or contact us via the form to speak to one of our programme advisors.

Do you need experience to work at a bank?

No, many entry-level roles, especially in retail banking, don’t require prior experience, but having some relevant experience can strengthen your application.

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 summer school takes place in London, offering a blend of university-style laboratory sessions and outdoor field trips to nearby ecosystems and biodiversity research sites.

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.

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

We maintain an inclusive, respectful learning environment where all students feel welcome to participate. Our team enforces a strict anti-bullying policy to ensure mutual respect and collaboration. If you have any concerns during the programme, our staff will be available to support you.

Is the Banking and Finance programme suitable for students with additional learning needs or disabilities?

Yes, we are committed to making the programme accessible for all students. If you require specific accommodations, please inform us in advance, and we will tailor the experience to suit your needs.

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

Our dedicated support team is available throughout the programme to assist with both academic and personal queries. Whether you need help understanding content or have general concerns, we ensure that support is always readily available.

How do you ensure student safety during the programme?

All activities are conducted in a secure and structured environment. Our staff are DBS-checked, and we have safeguarding policies in place to ensure students' safety. For those staying in accommodation, our programme leaders are available 24/7, and university security is also present around the clock.

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

Booking is easy! Simply choose your programme length and complete the booking via our website. If you have any questions, you can contact us at info@studymind.co.uk and arrange a call with our team. The programme is open to students aged 15-18, and no prior finance experience is required. Students coming from abroad will need a good level of English to fully participate.

How does the programme compare to traditional banking work experience?

Traditional placements can be difficult to secure and may not offer structured learning. Our programme provides hands-on work experience for banking, direct mentorship, and interactive learning that closely mirrors the day-to-day operations in the financial industry.

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

Yes, we provide continued support after the programme ends. Our team is here to help with university applications, personal statement guidance, and interview preparation, giving you the extra edge you need to pursue further education in finance or banking.

Who are the professionals leading the Banking and Finance programme?

Our mentors are experienced professionals from the banking and finance sectors, including investment bankers, risk analysts, and financial market experts. They provide expert guidance, share real-world insights, and offer tailored support to help you succeed in the field.

What makes Study Mind’s Banking and Finance programme unique?

We offer a unique blend of academic learning, real-world experience, and personal mentorship. Our structured curriculum ensures you gain invaluable finance work experience, boosting your confidence and enhancing your university applications for careers in finance or banking.