First interns ‘graduate’ from ONE Programme

The first interns from the Methodist Church’s ONEProgramme have successfully completed their year and graduated from the scheme, with many of them moving into careers in their chosen fields.

The ONE intern scheme offers exciting professional opportunities for 21-26 year-olds to explore their faith and discover how this integrates with the workplace, through placements in a range of organisations.

Each intern receives a living wage from the Methodist Church. The ONE Intern programme combines training and mentoring to support professional, personal and spiritual development, growing each intern's faith and career potential.

In 2017 the interns were placed with a range of organisations; Action for Children, the Central Finance Board, the House of Lords and the Joint Public Issues Team, Ponte Sant`Angelo in Rome and the Association of Executive Coaching.

Georgia Blatherwick from Nottingham undertook her placement with the Association of Executive Coaching. “They gave me the chance to be part of something bigger,” she said. “Many internships leave you to your own devices, but with this scheme I was part of a team alongside the interns in the other organisations.

 “One of the most exciting things has been the unknown. I have been constantly learning and challenging myself, stepping out of my comfort zone.  During my time at university, I lost touch with my spiritual side. This internship has given me a chance to see how my faith and career can work together. 

Gina Lodge is CEO of the Association of Executive Coaching were Georgia undertook her internship. “We have never had an intern before,” she commented. “When Georgia joined us, she instantly became part of the team. She has worked on many different projects and has been working especially hard to develop a new programme for graduates. 

“Georgia is now going to join us full-time as a Digital Marketing Executive, developing her business skills and coaching skills.”

Rachel Allison is from Yorkshire.  She undertook her internship at the House of Lords, working both with Lord Leslie Griffiths and as part of the Joint Public Issues Team.

Rachel said: “Exploring the link between theology and politics really interested me. To have the opportunity to work in the House of Lords was amazing, and to do that while working within a policy lobby think-tank was a great opportunity. I think I have learned a lot more about my strengths and weaknesses and what to look for to find a career that is spiritually and mentally fulfilling.

“Before I started, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. Now I understand what I am passionate about, where I want to go and how I should achieve my goals.

“It has given me a better understanding of how politics, life and the secular intermingle. Thinking theologically and working alongside lots of people who are and are not Christians has given me the confidence to know what I am really good at, to know what my gifts and floors are.”

Other success for the scheme have seen interns move onto jobs in Action for Children and the civil service.

Jude Trenier, coordinator for the ONE Programme, commented: “It’s a privilege to be part of the team who, for a whole year, walk alongside each young adult in the ONE Intern community as they take strides forward in exploring their faith and vocation. It’s definitely a year of challenges as well as opportunities – professionally, personally and spiritually, but most of all it’s a year for young adults to go deeper with God and hear His voice on what their calling is, all whilst working in roles within highly regarded organisations – it’s an internship unlike any other.”

The seven interns completed their year with a service of thanksgiving at Wesley’s Chapel in City Road, London. The interns’ families and friends attended the service, along with representatives from the organisations with which the interns were placed.