The Opening Horizons Programme

Due to high volume of applications, this event has now closed for submissions. Keep an eye out for future similar events from the FCA.

Opening Horizons Programme

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) invites Bright Network members, currently in their first year of study of a three-year course, or second year of study of a four-year course, to join their two-day virtual experience – The Opening Horizons Programme. As an organisation committed to increasing diversity in Financial Services, the FCA offers you this unique chance to explore the industry whilst developing the skills needed to get ahead. Plus, you’ll also have the opportunity to be part of a real assessment centre, potentially securing a place on the FCA’s 2022 Generalist Summer Internship!

Who is the FCA?

At the FCA, we aim to make markets work well – for individuals, for business, large and small, and for the economy as a whole. We regulate nearly 60,000 financial services firms and financial markets in the UK, and we’re the prudential supervisor for 49,000 firms. Whatever financial services product you have, whether it be a bank account, a loan, car insurance or an investment, it’s likely to be regulated by us.

Is the FCA for me?

At the FCA, we believe that we can only achieve our best when we have a diverse group of individuals working together, challenging one another and considering a breadth of different perspectives. This is why we’re so passionate about diversity – it’s critical to our ability to protect consumers.

Whilst we’re proud to have ranked 27th in the 2020 Social Mobility Employer Index, recognising our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace, we know that there is still a long way to go. This is where our Opening Horizons Programme comes in.

Aimed at levelling the playing field for students, we run the programme in Spring. We are wholeheartedly dedicated to widening access and progressing talent from all backgrounds and believe that our inclusive approach to embedding socio-economic diversity will contribute to our ongoing success.

Our Opening Horizons Programme is also an opportunity to connect with other passionate students interested in a career in Financial Services. Our roles range in Supervision, Technology, Law, Project Management and much more, and they are perfect for those ready to learn and make an impact. Our Opening Horizons programme provides you with the opportunity to secure a 2022 Internship, in one of our generalist divisions.

During this insight programme, you’ll hear from a range of inspirational FCA employees, have the chance to ask questions, gain valuable assessment centre experience and take part in personal development and employability sessions.

Programme Overview

• Day 1 – 29th April – Introduction to the FCA and Financial Services

• Day 2 – 30th April – 2022 Generalist Summer Internship Assessment Centre

Full details will be provided to successful applicants nearer the time.

How to apply?

To secure your spot at the event, click the ‘Apply Now’ button, complete the short application form and if successful, someone from Bright Network will be in touch with the next steps of the process. Spaces are limited, so we recommend you apply as early as possible. The FCA only accept one application per intake year, therefore participation in this program would count as your application for the 2022 summer internship programme.

Who can apply?

• Bright Network members currently in their first year of study of a three-year course, or second year of study of a four-year course
• Members who:
  • Have received free school meals
  • Have attended a state school
  • Are the first generation in their family to go to university
  • Or consider themselves to be from a lower-socioeconomic background
• On track for a 2.1 or above
• Members with a keen interest in Financial Services