Looking for your first professional role? The Mainstream Internship Programme offers paid, fully funded internships lasting 4–12 weeks, and Student Job Search is now promoting these opportunities to help connect you with employers actively seeking fresh talent.
Open to final year students and recent graduates with neurodiversity, physical or sensory impairments, or health conditions, these government-funded internships are delivered by Propel People and designed for those ready to launch their careers.
Break into your field
Getting that crucial first professional role can be tough when everyone wants "experience". These internships give you legitimate, paid work in your field, professional references, and the chance to prove what you can do.
The programme provides real-world experience that helps you build confidence and skills while applying your studies in a practical, structured environment. You bring current knowledge, digital fluency, and fresh perspectives that employers actively seek. Many employers report that their intern becomes a real asset to the team, opens doors to valuable conversations, and delivers unexpectedly positive results.
The aim is not just to 'place' a student, but to create a meaningful, supported experience that strengthens your career development and enriches the employer's workplace culture.
Are you eligible?
The programme is designed for work-ready students and graduates who are motivated to succeed, willing to embrace challenges, and ready to develop their professional capabilities. You can apply if you:
· Have a physical or sensory impairment, are neurodivergent, or live with a health condition (including mental health conditions)
· Are in your final two years of tertiary study OR completed your qualification within the last 12 months
· Are eligible to work in New Zealand
Check the website for full details.
Work with employers who get it
Propel People partners with organisations genuinely committed to building diverse teams. They provide practical workplace setup guidance and regular support throughout your internship – because effective communication and clear expectations are just good business practice that help everyone succeed.
Student Job Search Chief Executive Louise Saviker says initiatives like the Mainstream Internship Programme are vital to ensuring all students have equal employment opportunities.
"We're working closely with the team at Propel to promote these internship opportunities on our website, www.sjs.co.nz, where thousands of students are looking for jobs every day. This programme helps graduates transition into professional roles with real experience, strong references, and established networks – exactly what you need to launch your career."
How to apply
Browse internship listings on www.sjs.co.nz – these are updated regularly as new opportunities become available. Apply directly through the Propel People website at www.propelpeople.co.nz/internship-for-employers.
The Propel team are also actively seeking internships for eligible applicants, so even if you don't see the perfect role listed right now, get your application in and they'll work to match you with suitable opportunities.