College/Uni

Funding for Cycle Friendly Campus Internships

20 April 2018    

Building on the successes of our previously supported interns, Cycling Scotland is pleased to open applications for funding for the 2018/19 internship programme.

Interns will be participants in Bright Green Business’ Environmental Placement Programme (EPP) and will take on the role of Campus Cycling Officer (CCO) to work around the development needs of the organisation.

Over the last two years, CCOs have been placed in 18 universities and colleges across Scotland and have worked on a variety of projects from undertaking gap analysis and in-depth travel surveys to better understand where to place their focus to applying for external funding to improve facilities and organising and cycling events for students and staff. Some went on to implement and manage local bike sharing schemes and to deliver training.

Depending on the capacity of the host organisation and the successful candidates, placements can be full-time or part-time for 34 to 43 weeks, with an option to be extended. Placements are paid at the Scottish Living Wage and sponsored by Cycling Scotland through funding from Transport Scotland.

All colleges and universities in Scotland are eligible to apply and strongly encouraged to do so.

"Having an intern with us for the last eight months dedicated to promoting cycling initiatives has allowed Forth Valley College to move forward with our agenda for active travel. We have also been able to continue the good working partnerships that we have with Cycling Scotland, Stirling Cycle Hub, Falkirk Active Travel Hub and Falkirk Council. Yet again, we have been able to provide Dr Bike sessions to staff and students on all three campuses but this year we have also had a presence at Fresher’s Fair, Refresher’s Fair and the Support Staff Development Day. Yesterday was the first day of led cycle rides in Falkirk which has created an interest with staff and students who want to attend next month’s ride. 

We have been successful in receiving grant funding from Cycling Scotland, which will allow us to remove a potential obstacle with cyclists by providing bike maintenance equipment on all campuses.  This opportunity has been a positive experience and something we would like to continue."

Pauline Donaldson, Facilities Management Coordinator, Forth Valley College

“The University of Strathclyde has benefited immensely from the CF internship programme.  Our intern, Clement, has moved the University’s Cycling Strategy and Travel Plan forward in all areas since he started here.  The most valuable aspect has been the face-to-face engagement with staff and students that the Internship has facilitated.   Of particular note was the University’s first Cycling Festival held on the city centre campus.  The University values it’s strengthened relationship with Cycling Scotland and looks forward to working closely with them for many years to come.”

David Charles, Energy Engineer, University of Strathclyde

If you are interested in hosting an internship at your college or university, contact Valentin Jeanjean to find out more.