Manx students are being encouraged to apply for a programme to work with local businesses.

The programme, open to second or penultimate year students, currently undertaking a full-time course either on the island or in the UK is run by the Department for Enterprise.

Students are placed with small- and medium-sized local organisations for eight weeks during their summer break where they undertake specific projects relating to the business.

Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Enterprise, said: ’We have received fantastic feedback from students over the years and would like to thank local organisations for supporting the programme which has enabled students to undertake useful and relevant projects for the host businesses.

’The STEP Programme has proven to be an invaluable opportunity for students to gain work based experience before they embark on their careers post-graduation.’

STEP used to stand for the Shell Technology Enterprise Programme . But even after the oil company stopped sponsoring it, organisers kept the acronym because it was well-known.

Last year saw a record 45 students complete a range of projects with the award for Most Enterprising Student going to Jak Morris, who completed a research project for Strix Ltd to calculate the amount of silver used within different control products and recommend improvements.

Those taking part will receive a tax and NI free training allowance of £240 per week, personal development, enhancement to their CV, and in some cases, the possibility of a permanent job offer post-graduation. Application forms are available through the DfE website https://www.gov.im/step

For information contact the STEP team on [email protected] or 682383.