Internships in Leicester 2026

Leicester offers internships in a wide range of sectors including fashion and textiles, manufacturing, healthcare, education, public services, marketing, business operations, and IT. Key employers include Next, Samworth Brothers, Leicester City Council, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, and both University of Leicester and De Montfort University.

Applications for summer internships typically open between October and February, especially for structured placements with larger companies. Smaller firms, charities, and public sector organisations may advertise roles later in the spring or even on a rolling basis. Check your university careers service regularly, too.

No—you don’t need to be a student at a Leicester university to apply. Many local employers are open to applicants from across the UK. However, if you are local or familiar with the area, that’s worth highlighting—it can show your commitment and availability.

Leicester is a diverse, friendly, and affordable city, with a strong sense of community and growing business networks. Interns often find they get hands-on experience, especially in SMEs, and have the chance to take on real responsibility. The city also has good transport links to the wider Midlands and London.

Absolutely. Many employers use internships as a way to spot future talent, and successful interns are often fast-tracked for graduate opportunities. Even if a role doesn’t lead directly to a job offer, the experience, skills, and contacts you gain can be a huge boost when applying for graduate positions.