The Department of Economic Development is encouraging Isle of Man organisations to support the 2016 STEP Programme which provides work-based projects for local undergraduates. Standard Bank Isle of Man Limited has extended its sponsorship of the project for a second year.

The 2015 STEP Programme saw 38 students complete a range of projects including creative, manufacturing, marketing and quality assurance.

This year’s STEP programme will be launched with a networking event for previous and potential project sponsors hosted by Standard Bank at its office on Circular Road from 5:30pm-7pm, Thursday 7th April. Prospective host companies can register for the event here: http://step-prepprogramme.eventbrite.com. 

Alf Cannan MHK, the Department’s Political Member with responsibility for STEP commented:

‘The STEP Programme is a key part of the Department’s work to help young people find employment on the Isle of Man. The Programme offers real benefits for on-island businesses looking for an extra resource and represents excellent value for money.

‘Last year I was impressed with the talent demonstrated by our local undergraduates at the STEP awards ceremony, with both students and organisations expressing a real enthusiasm for the Programme and the results it generated.’

Chris Till, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Bank, said:

‘We are delighted to have the opportunity to sponsor the Isle of Man STEP programme for a second year. The Programme is an essential tool for showing local students the diversity of work available on the Isle of Man and opening up opportunities for growth and development for our future workforce.’

‘At Standard Bank we are very aware of the value the STEP Programme can bring to a business and will plan on taking on two STEP students this year. We hope that the work will not only provide valuable experience to our local undergraduates but will also give the bank a valuable insight and support on a range of interesting projects.’

Each placement is co-ordinated by local businessman, Ian Moncrief-Scott, who has been involved with the Programme for a number of years.

The closing date for host business applications is the 27th May and any local organisation requiring more information should contact either the Department of Economic Development, on 01624 682383 or by email at step.scheme@gov.im or Ian Moncrief-Scott on 01624 664883 or by email at ims@manx.net. 

More information regarding the scheme is available at https://www.gov.im/categories/working-in-the-isle-of-man/step-programme/