The Code sets out six principles of best practice:
- Preparation – employers need to prepare, in advance of an intern joining, what work they will be carrying out and how the company will be offering them a genuine opportunity to develop professional skills and experience;
- Recruitment – in broad terms, recruitment of interns should be similar to the process carried out for employees. Job adverts should clearly set out the role and responsibilities and the key terms of the role, e.g. hours, remuneration, start and end date;
- Induction - regardless of the size of your business, all interns should receive an induction. This includes an introduction to colleagues and to the structure and values of the business, as well as a tour of the building, facilities and health and safety procedures;
- Treatment - treat interns with the same duty of care and professionalism as employees ensuring they are not made to feel like visitors. Also ensure interns receive paid holiday of at least the statutory minimum amount (28 days per year if full-time);
- Supervision and mentoring - ensure ongoing feedback is provided and carry out formal performance reviews;
- Certification, reference and feedback - when the internship comes to an end, ensure the intern is provided with a certificate or reference letter setting out the work they have carried out, experience gained and the outcome of their formal performance review. Ensure the intern is also given an opportunity to provide feedback on their experience.