Employment Contract Template for Interns (UK 2026)

Employment ContractIntern

Last updated: February 2025

When You Need This Contract

Internship arrangements require careful legal structuring to determine whether the intern is a worker entitled to NMW or a genuine volunteer undertaking a work experience placement. If the intern performs productive work that benefits the business, they are almost certainly a worker and must receive at least NMW. This template covers paid internship arrangements with structured learning objectives, fixed duration terms, and the supervision framework that makes an internship a valuable development experience rather than just cheap labour.

Key Clauses

  • Fixed-term duration with clear start and end dates
  • Structured learning objectives and development plan
  • Supervisor assignment and regular review meetings
  • NMW compliance with correct rate for the intern's age
  • Conversion pathway from internship to permanent role if applicable

What to Watch Out For

  • Treating an intern as a volunteer to avoid paying NMW when they are actually performing productive work for the business
  • Not providing structured learning objectives, making the internship indistinguishable from a standard junior role

Sample Clauses

  • Sample learning objectives clause: 'This internship is designed to provide practical experience in [field]. Your learning objectives include [specific skills]. Your supervisor will conduct fortnightly reviews to assess progress against these objectives and ensure the placement is providing genuine developmental value.'
  • Sample duration clause: 'This internship is for a fixed period of [X] weeks/months, commencing [date] and ending [date]. There is no guarantee of permanent employment following the internship, although the Company may offer a permanent role subject to business needs and satisfactory performance.'

FAQ

Do I have to pay interns the National Minimum Wage?

If the intern performs productive work that benefits the business and is not a genuine student on a placement as part of a UK higher education course, they are almost certainly a worker entitled to NMW. The fact that they are gaining experience does not negate wage obligations. Only genuine volunteers for charities and certain student placements are exempt. When in doubt, pay NMW to eliminate the legal risk.

Can an internship contract include a probationary period?

Since paid internships are typically fixed-term, a formal probationary period is unusual. Instead, include regular review meetings throughout the internship to assess performance and fit. If the internship may lead to permanent employment, specify that the permanent role would be subject to a standard probationary period. The internship itself effectively serves as an extended assessment.

Related Templates

Employment Contract Template for Apprentices (UK 2026)

Employment Contract Template for Your First Hire (UK 2026)

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This is guidance for UK businesses, not legal advice. Templates are illustrative. Consult a solicitor for complex matters.

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