Applications for this job are now closed
Turn your legal studies into real-world impact across environmental and public law.
This placement is designed as a genuine stepping stone into the Environment Agency. You’ll gain real insight into the work we do, build valuable connections, and get involved in the kinds of projects that could lead to longer-term opportunities with us in the future.
Want your legal studies to make a real-world difference? At the Environment Agency, you’ll use your legal skills to help protect people, communities and the environment - tackling some of the UK’s most important environmental challenges.
Join our Legal Services Team within Strategy, Transformation & Assurance (STA) department and gain hands-on experience supporting legal advice, litigation and decision-making that underpins environmental protection and sustainable development — all within the rule of law.
This 12-week paid summer internship, starting in June 2026, is more than a work placement. It’s a chance to build practical legal skills, work alongside experienced public-sector lawyers, and explore career pathways that could shape your future.
What you’ll do
You’ll gain exposure to a broad range of public-sector legal work, including:
- Legal research and analysis across environmental, planning, commercial, property, criminal, employment, information and health & safety law
- Supporting litigation and appeals, including Judicial Review and prosecutions
- Learning about corporate governance and contributing to major national projects
- Understanding legal risk management and supporting training initiatives
You’ll support on real cases and live issues - developing skills that go far beyond the classroom.
What’s in it for you?
- Invest in your future and the planet. Ethical, career-average pension with around 19% employer contribution - helping you grow your future and support the planet.
- Time to recharge, time to thrive. Enjoy 25 days of annual leave (or equivalent for your work pattern), plus bank holidays, because balance matters.
- Flexibility that works for you. Flexible working - hybrid, part-time or compressed hours opportunities.
- Supportive networks that help you thrive. Supportive networks from day one - office buddies, peer groups and mentors to help you settle in, grow and shape your experience.
- Your development, your way. We’ll build a personalised training plan with you and encourage you to be proactive, explore new challenges and make the most of every opportunity.
Who we’re looking for
We’re keen to hear from candidates who:
- Have a genuine interest in developing a legal career
- Are studying (or have completed) a Law degree or PG Diploma in Law
- Have strong legal research skills and confidence using Microsoft Office
- Are organised, detail-focused, and able to work both independently and collaboratively
- Are willing to travel occasionally (helpful but not essential)
You’ll need to
- Be in the final year of your undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or have graduated within the last 12 months (from June 2025)
- Have the right to work in the UK
Location & working pattern
- Flexible working arrangements
- Locations: Birmingham, Exeter, Peterborough or Warrington
- Full support provided throughout the internship
Why Join us?
This is your chance to have influence that lasts - helping shape legal frameworks and decisions that protect the environment and communities. You’ll gain insight into regulation, legal advice, litigation and the development of legislation, supported by mentoring and access to expert networks.
What Do Our Graduates Say?
“It is a great organisation that cares about its employees and gives you plenty of opportunity to develop and find out where your interests lie.” - Govind, Internship and Industrial Placement 2025
Meet Govind – Intern and Industry Placement Student
Ready to shape your future?
Applications close 15 February 2026
Interviews: March-April 2026
Offers expected: May 2026
