Official UK Government Partner

Banking & Investment Work Experience for Year 12 Students

This practical, hands-on banking work experience in London will provide you with real-life skills and understanding of banking businesses, trading, asset & portfolio management and more! Scroll down for more information.

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Why Choose our Banking Work Experience?

Within the programme you will visit leading firms and gain bank work experience in central London. You will network with professionals and gain hands-on experience of the stock market and trading, how to manage a portfolio and how to analyse markets to make the most out of your assets.

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

What You'll Learn About Investment Banking

Scroll through some of the programme highlights.

Asset ManagementNavigate real-world asset management scenarios, manage costs, and respond to market competition.
Global MarketsExplore how central bank policies impact areas such as interest rate adjustments and can impact the broader economy.
Industry Visit: EY (Ernst & Young)Take part in an interactive finance workshop with professionals at one of the top accounting firms, EY (Ernst & Young).
Industry Visit: Lloyd’s of LondonExperience the insurance industry first hand with a visit to Lloyd’s, led by UIB, a leading insurance and reinsurance Lloyd’s broker.
London Academy of TradingYou will gain the tools and techniques of financial valuation and analysis as you trade stocks in a simulated environment.
Hedge Fund ManagementLearn about hedge funds and analyse case studies and markets to assess each asset.
Plan Your Path

Choose Your Programme Format

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

Pricing

Investment Banking work experience 2025 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:
  • Risk Management
  • Financial Markets
  • Trading Floor Visit
  • Stock Market
  • 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
ALUMNI

What Our Students Say

Get inspired and read firsthand feedback from students around the world on how they enjoyed the banking 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 12,000+ students
PARTNERS

Proud to partner with

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

STUDENTS

What's Included In the Bank Work Experience

Boost your university application today

Gain practical insight into banking professions, financial case studies and trading scenarios.
Hands-On Banking Exposure
Improve your understanding of market analysis, banking and asset management.
Develop Key Banking Skills
Strengthen your personal statement and demonstrate your commitment with valuable work experience examples.
Boost University Applications
Connect with bankers, financiers and banking students who can offer guidance and career advice.
Network With Professionals
WHY CHOOSE STUDY MIND

Investment Banking Work Experience

1000s of students trust us

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THE PROCESS

Booking Investment Banking Work Experience

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1Choose Your Programme

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

 

2Receive Preparation Materials 

Get exclusive pre-programme resources to help you maximise your learning and understand banking & finance concepts. 

 

3Complete Your Experience 

Engage in real-life medical scenarios, gain hands-on insight, and receive a certificate for university applications.

 

Tutors

Meet Your Instructors

Our industry experts bring you a wealth of experience in their field, providing you with great learning and networking opportunities. Here are some examples of previous leaders of the programme. Please note that these are subject to change.

Joely
Trading Analyst

Joely, a commodities trading analyst, has gained hands-on experience at top firms like Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan, and Citi. As a mentor, she focuses on providing practical learning experiences and real-world insights into finance and trading. Joely is passionate about helping others develop key skills and fostering confidence, drawing from her diverse background and entrepreneurial projects like Pioneer Maths and Blaze Careers Tutoring.

Syed
Lead Strategist at Citadel

Syed holds a Master’s in Finance and Accounting from King’s College London, graduating with first-class honours. He specialises in asset pricing, quantitative analysis, and financial modelling, and earned a second Master’s in financial services marketing from Northumbria University. Syed has worked as a Lead Strategist at Citadel in Miami and mentors students and professionals, leading events to inspire future leaders in finance.

Adi
Investment Professional

Adi Arya has extensive experience in Hedge Funds, Investment Banking, and Finance in London. He is a key member of a UK hedge fund managing over $5.2bn. Previously, Adi was Vice President at HPS Investment Fund and worked at RBC and Evercore. He offers valuable insights into the challenges, hurdles, and benefits of working in finance.

Pragyan
LSE Graduate

Pragyan, a BSc Economics graduate from LSE, is passionate about consulting and business analytics. With a strong academic foundation and a drive to help others, he is dedicated to mentoring students, offering clear insights, and fostering critical thinking to help them succeed academically and develop valuable skills for their careers.

Shatish
Chairman of UNICEF UK

Shatish is the Chairman of a global charity, with extensive experience in corporate leadership. He holds an MBA from London Business School and has served as CFO at several FTSE-listed companies. He led the IPO of Forterra PLC on the London Stock Exchange, helping it enter the FTSE 250. His expertise includes financial strategy, leadership, and corporate growth.

Andy
Head of Forex Trading

Andy is an experienced trader and mentor with a background in Forex, Crypto, Algo, and Options trading. After years of success in the industry, he founded a company to help aspiring traders gain the skills and experience needed for a career in trading. Andy’s passion for mentoring and his practical approach make him a valuable asset to anyone looking to succeed in the trading world.

Ian
Financial Tours

Ian has a deep passion for finance and the City’s trading history. With a background in history from Cambridge and London universities, he loves sharing insights into the evolution of the City’s financial hub. His private tours explore the narrow alleys where today’s massive trading centre was born.

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.

How to get investment banking work experience as a student?

You can do the following:

  • Attend insight days or spring weeks offered by major banks.
  • Apply for summer internships or placement years during university.
  • Network through LinkedIn, alumni events, or careers fairs.
  • Join finance societies or take part in investment competitions.
  • Gain transferable skills through part-time work, volunteering, or online finance courses.

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.

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.

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 investment banking 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!

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.

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 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.

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 [email protected] 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.

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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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