We are proud to be an inclusive organisation that supports social mobility and creates equal opportunities for all, regardless of background.
upReach helps students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds explore career options, build professional relationships and develop key employability skills.
Our summer internship programme offers six-week placements for second or final year university students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. In the past, a number of individuals who have taken part in the programme have also gone on to secure full-time roles.
1. How did you hear about the Close Brothers summer internship programme?
I heard about the programme through my older brother who was an upReach associate and the programme has proven beneficial to his career journey – today he is a flourishing professional in the finance industry.
2. Tell us about the internship programme
The programme is a social mobility programme, with upReach itself being a social mobility charity, driven by a vision of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential, regardless of social background.
3. What attracted you to the programme?
I was attracted to the programme because of the access to witnessing yourself develop in both a personal and professional regard. Through video forums that help you build the right soft and technical skills to the career support provided to help you find a suitable career for you.
The chance to access exclusive opportunities, like my internship with Close Brothers within the Enterprise Change team, was accessed through upReach which was amazing! You have the chance to prepare for interviews through practicing online tests they have access to. They give critical detailed knowledge about interview process and background knowledge about opportunities at partnered organisations to aid your application.
The on-campus events also attracted me knowing that I can meet people just as like-minded or in a similar circumstance as me.
4. What surprised you most about the programme?
I was surprised by the extent of opportunity made accessible to all the upReach associates. The programme has you in one of the various streams such as Technology (which I was in), Consulting, Government and the Public Sector. You also have access to video forums, you can apply for internships, skill workshops and gain knowledge on other streams that might peak your interest.
5. What has been the highlight of the programme for you?
This is more of a personal response and links to me achieving the Gold Springboard which equates to 100% within five months of joining, and being the first associate to achieve it under my wonderful Programme Coordinator Tohura Chowdhury. In those five months, I’ve managed to attend two insights days at the accounting firm PwC, and pensions insurance firm LCP.
6. What skills has the programme helped you to develop or improve?
The programme has definitely helped me sharpen my verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Through online tests and career courses, I have built my knowledge of the technology industry.
7. What are you now aspiring to be?
I am now aspiring to work within the financial services or insurance industry.
8. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering an internship with us?
My advice would be to definitely go for it – it will be worth it! It will open doors for you to build a well-established network not just with senior leaders, but your peers.
9. Sum up your experience of the programme in three words
Immersive, inclusive and incredible.
10. What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the programme/working at Close Brothers?
It was an incredible experience. I learned so much, built strong connections and had the opportunity to lead meaningful projects like a Q&A session for South Asian Heritage Month. The support from managers and the intern community made it truly memorable.
11. How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?
The culture is amazing, open, supportive and welcoming. From senior leaders to peers, everyone is approachable and you feel part of a connected community that encourages growth and curiosity.
12. What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The ability to contribute meaningfully, knowing that your work has contributed to both the organisation and the customer.
1. How did you hear about the Close Brothers summer internship programme?
I heard about the programme from my sister. She is the one who inspired me to apply.
2. Tell us about the internship programme
The programme is a social mobility initiative in the UK that supports university students from less advantaged and minority backgrounds to secure professional jobs, gain access to work experience, graduate roles, internships and other opportunities that students might not otherwise have had. This could be due to financial constraints, logistical challenges or a lack of professional connections.
3. What attracted you to the programme?
What attracted me to the programme was the comprehensive career support it offers. I was particularly drawn to the access to employer opportunities and the chance to develop my skills in CV writing, interview preparation, psychometric testing and professional communication. Having a dedicated Programme Coordinator to guide me, build my confidence and support my application journey was also a major factor in my decision to join.
4. What surprised you most about the programme?
What surprised me most about the programme was the exclusive access it provides to internships and graduate roles that aren’t advertised anywhere else. I didn’t expect there to be so many unique opportunities available only through the internship. I didn't even know that was a thing.
5. What has been the highlight of the programme for you?
Having my Programme Coordinator support me throughout the entire process made a huge difference, especially as I had no prior experience. Everything was new to me and she genuinely helped me understand the whole application journey for internships and helped me prepare effectively. I honestly wouldn’t have been able to achieve this without her guidance.
6. What skills has the programme helped you to develop or improve?
The programme has really helped me improve my interview skills and strengthen my CV. Honestly, it’s been brilliant!
7. What are you now aspiring to be?
I aspire to become a Chartered Accountant within the next two to four years and I hope to pursue both a Master’s and a PhD while working alongside one of the Big Four firms. Although, that said, I’d genuinely prefer to work at Close Brothers, the culture here has honestly exceeded my expectations and made a lasting impression on me.
8. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering an internship with us?
My biggest tip would be to ask lots of questions, don’t be afraid to be curious! Make the most of every opportunity by joining as many upReach seminars as you can, and take advantage of everything that’s offered. The more you engage, the more you’ll get out of the experience.
9. Sum up your experience of the programme in three words
Supportive. Empowering. Transformative.
10. What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the programme/working at Close Brothers?
My personal experience of being on the programme at Close Brothers has been nothing short of amazing. The support I have received has been both professional and personal. It’s really helped me grow in confidence and develop my skills. The culture at Close Brothers has genuinely exceeded my expectations. it is so welcoming, inclusive and encourages growth at every level. I’ve felt valued throughout my internship and have learned so much about the industry and about myself.
Two experiences that truly stood out were the volunteering day at the Brixton foodbank and the interview with the Deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer and Co-founder of the Professional Women of Colour Working Group. Volunteering gave me a real sense of purpose and connection to the community, and the interview was incredibly inspiring. Hearing her story and the impact she’s made was empowering and has left a lasting impression on me. These moments really captured what Close Brothers is all about and made me proud to be part of the programme.
11. How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?
The culture at Close Brothers has genuinely exceeded all of my expectations. From day one, every person I have met, whether at Crown Place or the Sidcup office has been incredibly welcoming, kind and thoughtful. I have truly felt like I have been part of a big family.
In the office there is a strong sense of collaboration and support across teams, and it’s clear all employees genuinely care about each other’s growth and wellbeing. Close Brothers has been a place where I have felt valued and encouraged to contribute. It is a fantastic environment to learn and develop.
12. What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
During the three days of training at Crown Place, every single person we spoke to, whether it was during lunch with the Executive Committee members, chats with our managers, HR, IT or anyone else, mentioned how much they love working at Close Brothers because of the people. It almost felt scripted because they all said it! But honestly, now that I have experienced it myself, I completely understand why. The people here are genuinely the best part of working at Close Brothers. They are warm, supportive and truly make you feel like part of the family from day one. That sense of belonging and community is what makes this such a special place to learn, grow and thrive.
1. How did you hear about the Close Brothers summer internship programme?
I heard about this opportunity through an upReach weekly newsletter.
2. Tell us about the internship programme
The Close Brothers internship programme helps to expose young people from socially disadvantaged backgrounds to the professional world of work, by giving them the opportunity to gain practical hands-on experience, develop their technical understanding of their respective fields and allowing them to build a network of professionals across six weeks.
3. What attracted you to the programme?
The main thing that attracted me to this internship opportunity is the exposure to financial crime within a respected financial institution like Close Brothers. I was able to shadow many financial crime analysts that were responsible for different functions within the bank across three offices. I was able to build my own portfolio of technical knowledge and a network of support through the various tasks I was assigned during the internship programme, making a meaningful impact.
4. What surprised you most about the programme?
How cool and varied the job really was! No two days were the same and I was exposed to the incredible work and tools used by the financial crime team to prevent and mitigate money laundering and other financial crime risks.
5. What has been the highlight of the programme for you?
There were so many highlights! But one of the most memorable highlights of the internship programme was shadowing under the financial crime analysts.
6. What skills has the programme helped you to develop or improve?
One of the skills I developed and improved is time management. I was assigned multiple tasks with various deadlines, including ad-hoc tasks meaning through this internship and the support of my team, I was able to improve my time management skills by prioritising tasks in the order of importance or the proximity of their deadlines.
7. What are you now aspiring to be?
I aspire to enter the field of financial crime and risk. I believe that this internship has given me the toolbox required to further my career prospects.
8. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering an internship with us?
Definitely be proactive and voice what you really want to get out of your internship. I wanted to gain exposure to the world of financial crime at Close Brothers, so I arranged shadowing opportunities with financial crime analysts in different business units across the Brighton and Wimbledon offices where I gained the exposure I desired. So be proactive and take charge of your internship. Your internship is what you make it!
9. Sum up your experience of the programme in three words
Varied, interesting, exciting.
10. What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the programme/working at Close Brothers?
This internship was an amazing way for me to gain experience in the world of financial crime through a respected financial institution. I was able to build my skills and knowledge portfolio across the six weeks I was there through various tasks, projects and coffee chats with professionals. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I had a great personal experience at Close Brothers.
11. How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?
The culture at Close Brothers is very welcoming and friendly. Everyone is so knowledgeable about their respective fields, willing to share their time and experience with you, and answer your questions.
12. What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The people are the best thing at Close Brothers! Everyone is so friendly, knowledgeable and incredibly good at what they do.
1. How did you hear about the Close Brothers summer internship programme?
I heard about the programme through my older brother who was an upReach associate and the programme has proven beneficial to his career journey – today he is a flourishing professional in the finance industry.
2. Tell us about the internship programme
The programme is a social mobility programme, with upReach itself being a social mobility charity, driven by a vision of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential, regardless of social background.
3. What attracted you to the programme?
I was attracted to the programme because of the access to witnessing yourself develop in both a personal and professional regard. Through video forums that help you build the right soft and technical skills to the career support provided to help you find a suitable career for you.
The chance to access exclusive opportunities, like my internship with Close Brothers within the Enterprise Change team, was accessed through upReach which was amazing! You have the chance to prepare for interviews through practicing online tests they have access to. They give critical detailed knowledge about interview process and background knowledge about opportunities at partnered organisations to aid your application.
The on-campus events also attracted me knowing that I can meet people just as like-minded or in a similar circumstance as me.
4. What surprised you most about the programme?
I was surprised by the extent of opportunity made accessible to all the upReach associates. The programme has you in one of the various streams such as Technology (which I was in), Consulting, Government and the Public Sector. You also have access to video forums, you can apply for internships, skill workshops and gain knowledge on other streams that might peak your interest.
5. What has been the highlight of the programme for you?
This is more of a personal response and links to me achieving the Gold Springboard which equates to 100% within five months of joining, and being the first associate to achieve it under my wonderful Programme Coordinator Tohura Chowdhury. In those five months, I’ve managed to attend two insights days at the accounting firm PwC, and pensions insurance firm LCP.
6. What skills has the programme helped you to develop or improve?
The programme has definitely helped me sharpen my verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Through online tests and career courses, I have built my knowledge of the technology industry.
7. What are you now aspiring to be?
I am now aspiring to work within the financial services or insurance industry.
8. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering an internship with us?
My advice would be to definitely go for it – it will be worth it! It will open doors for you to build a well-established network not just with senior leaders, but your peers.
9. Sum up your experience of the programme in three words
Immersive, inclusive and incredible.
10. What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the programme/working at Close Brothers?
It was an incredible experience. I learned so much, built strong connections and had the opportunity to lead meaningful projects like a Q&A session for South Asian Heritage Month. The support from managers and the intern community made it truly memorable.
11. How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?
The culture is amazing, open, supportive and welcoming. From senior leaders to peers, everyone is approachable and you feel part of a connected community that encourages growth and curiosity.
12. What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The ability to contribute meaningfully, knowing that your work has contributed to both the organisation and the customer.
1. How did you hear about the Close Brothers summer internship programme?
I heard about the programme from my sister. She is the one who inspired me to apply.
2. Tell us about the internship programme
The programme is a social mobility initiative in the UK that supports university students from less advantaged and minority backgrounds to secure professional jobs, gain access to work experience, graduate roles, internships and other opportunities that students might not otherwise have had. This could be due to financial constraints, logistical challenges or a lack of professional connections.
3. What attracted you to the programme?
What attracted me to the programme was the comprehensive career support it offers. I was particularly drawn to the access to employer opportunities and the chance to develop my skills in CV writing, interview preparation, psychometric testing and professional communication. Having a dedicated Programme Coordinator to guide me, build my confidence and support my application journey was also a major factor in my decision to join.
4. What surprised you most about the programme?
What surprised me most about the programme was the exclusive access it provides to internships and graduate roles that aren’t advertised anywhere else. I didn’t expect there to be so many unique opportunities available only through the internship. I didn't even know that was a thing.
5. What has been the highlight of the programme for you?
Having my Programme Coordinator support me throughout the entire process made a huge difference, especially as I had no prior experience. Everything was new to me and she genuinely helped me understand the whole application journey for internships and helped me prepare effectively. I honestly wouldn’t have been able to achieve this without her guidance.
6. What skills has the programme helped you to develop or improve?
The programme has really helped me improve my interview skills and strengthen my CV. Honestly, it’s been brilliant!
7. What are you now aspiring to be?
I aspire to become a Chartered Accountant within the next two to four years and I hope to pursue both a Master’s and a PhD while working alongside one of the Big Four firms. Although, that said, I’d genuinely prefer to work at Close Brothers, the culture here has honestly exceeded my expectations and made a lasting impression on me.
8. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering an internship with us?
My biggest tip would be to ask lots of questions, don’t be afraid to be curious! Make the most of every opportunity by joining as many upReach seminars as you can, and take advantage of everything that’s offered. The more you engage, the more you’ll get out of the experience.
9. Sum up your experience of the programme in three words
Supportive. Empowering. Transformative.
10. What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the programme/working at Close Brothers?
My personal experience of being on the programme at Close Brothers has been nothing short of amazing. The support I have received has been both professional and personal. It’s really helped me grow in confidence and develop my skills. The culture at Close Brothers has genuinely exceeded my expectations. it is so welcoming, inclusive and encourages growth at every level. I’ve felt valued throughout my internship and have learned so much about the industry and about myself.
Two experiences that truly stood out were the volunteering day at the Brixton foodbank and the interview with the Deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer and Co-founder of the Professional Women of Colour Working Group. Volunteering gave me a real sense of purpose and connection to the community, and the interview was incredibly inspiring. Hearing her story and the impact she’s made was empowering and has left a lasting impression on me. These moments really captured what Close Brothers is all about and made me proud to be part of the programme.
11. How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?
The culture at Close Brothers has genuinely exceeded all of my expectations. From day one, every person I have met, whether at Crown Place or the Sidcup office has been incredibly welcoming, kind and thoughtful. I have truly felt like I have been part of a big family.
In the office there is a strong sense of collaboration and support across teams, and it’s clear all employees genuinely care about each other’s growth and wellbeing. Close Brothers has been a place where I have felt valued and encouraged to contribute. It is a fantastic environment to learn and develop.
12. What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
During the three days of training at Crown Place, every single person we spoke to, whether it was during lunch with the Executive Committee members, chats with our managers, HR, IT or anyone else, mentioned how much they love working at Close Brothers because of the people. It almost felt scripted because they all said it! But honestly, now that I have experienced it myself, I completely understand why. The people here are genuinely the best part of working at Close Brothers. They are warm, supportive and truly make you feel like part of the family from day one. That sense of belonging and community is what makes this such a special place to learn, grow and thrive.
1. How did you hear about the Close Brothers summer internship programme?
I heard about this opportunity through an upReach weekly newsletter.
2. Tell us about the internship programme
The Close Brothers internship programme helps to expose young people from socially disadvantaged backgrounds to the professional world of work, by giving them the opportunity to gain practical hands-on experience, develop their technical understanding of their respective fields and allowing them to build a network of professionals across six weeks.
3. What attracted you to the programme?
The main thing that attracted me to this internship opportunity is the exposure to financial crime within a respected financial institution like Close Brothers. I was able to shadow many financial crime analysts that were responsible for different functions within the bank across three offices. I was able to build my own portfolio of technical knowledge and a network of support through the various tasks I was assigned during the internship programme, making a meaningful impact.
4. What surprised you most about the programme?
How cool and varied the job really was! No two days were the same and I was exposed to the incredible work and tools used by the financial crime team to prevent and mitigate money laundering and other financial crime risks.
5. What has been the highlight of the programme for you?
There were so many highlights! But one of the most memorable highlights of the internship programme was shadowing under the financial crime analysts.
6. What skills has the programme helped you to develop or improve?
One of the skills I developed and improved is time management. I was assigned multiple tasks with various deadlines, including ad-hoc tasks meaning through this internship and the support of my team, I was able to improve my time management skills by prioritising tasks in the order of importance or the proximity of their deadlines.
7. What are you now aspiring to be?
I aspire to enter the field of financial crime and risk. I believe that this internship has given me the toolbox required to further my career prospects.
8. Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering an internship with us?
Definitely be proactive and voice what you really want to get out of your internship. I wanted to gain exposure to the world of financial crime at Close Brothers, so I arranged shadowing opportunities with financial crime analysts in different business units across the Brighton and Wimbledon offices where I gained the exposure I desired. So be proactive and take charge of your internship. Your internship is what you make it!
9. Sum up your experience of the programme in three words
Varied, interesting, exciting.
10. What would you like to share about your personal experience of being on the programme/working at Close Brothers?
This internship was an amazing way for me to gain experience in the world of financial crime through a respected financial institution. I was able to build my skills and knowledge portfolio across the six weeks I was there through various tasks, projects and coffee chats with professionals. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I had a great personal experience at Close Brothers.
11. How would you describe the culture at Close Brothers?
The culture at Close Brothers is very welcoming and friendly. Everyone is so knowledgeable about their respective fields, willing to share their time and experience with you, and answer your questions.
12. What is the best thing about working at Close Brothers?
The people are the best thing at Close Brothers! Everyone is so friendly, knowledgeable and incredibly good at what they do.
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