Every July, Sir Iain Duncan Smith runs a Summer Work Experience Programme for students in Chingford & Woodford Green, offering young constituents first‑hand insight into the day‑to‑day work of a Member of Parliament across both local and national level.
Over the week, students will divide their time between the Houses of Parliament and the constituency. From Monday to Wednesday, students will shadow Sir Iain in the Westminster Office, join APPG evidence sessions, attend parliamentary drop‑ins, and watch debates from the public gallery. Students will also have the opportunity to learn about Sir Iain’s wider work beyond Westminster. As Chairman and co-founder of the thinktank, Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), students will take part in a workshop at the CSJ to understand how policy ideas are shaped and developed, focusing on tackling the root causes of poverty and social inequality through research, policy development, and advocacy.
On Thursday and Friday, students will accompany Sir Iain during his constituency days. They will attend visits to schools and local organisations, volunteer and support community events such as the coffee mornings, Older Person's Fair and Job's Fair gaining direct insight into how casework and community engagement shape an MP’s responsibilities.
The placement provides valuable experience in local politics and the chance to develop key skills. Students may assist with:
- Casework
- Researching an issue
- Accompanying the MP to meetings or events in Westminster or the constituency
- Assisting with office duties
- Answering constituent queries by phone or email
Applications for prospective candidates will open in Easter 2027. Candidates are required to submit a CV and cover letter to [email protected].