ABOUT THE PROGRAMME This 4-day programme for sixth formers is your chance to gain experience discussing economic ideas and concepts beyond the exam curriculum. The week will include lectures, discussions, and debates with expert economists. Participants will hear from people in academia and politics about career opportunities, and at the end of the week the interns will deliver a 1-minute elevator pitch for a Think Tank of their choice.

AIMED AT: A-Level / IB students  

TESTIMONIALS:

“I honestly enjoyed it so much and miss my whole time there! I will make sure to recommend it to anyone interested in economics.”

“I have truly found this to be an invaluable experience and I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to participate!”

“I would recommend it to anyone who has a passion for economics and an intellectual curiosity to learn more.”

The IEA Future Thought Leaders’ Programme (Sixth Form) is a 4-day programme with a focus on economics and public policy. Interns participate in a series of lectures delivered by experts, addressing pressing current issues such as globalisation, inequality, solutions to combat climate change, inflation, the housing crisis, political realignment, and the regulation of digital markets.

In addition, the IEA delivers professional development sessions led by industry professionals, offering insights into careers in finance, academia, think-tanks, journalism, and more. During the programme, interns will take part in Speed Debates on a range of topics and finish the week delivering an Elevator Pitch for a Think Tank of their choice.

Former interns have pursued varied career paths, and the IEA extends continuous support to its alumni, emphasising not only guidance but also fostering networking opportunities. Alumni are regularly invited to invitations to private receptions, IEA book club discussions and policy panel events. This programme is your chance to enter the world of Free Market Economics!

This programme not only introduces sixth form students to the world of politics, but also opens the door for further opportunities at the undergraduate and postgraduate level, as well as cultivating lasting connections in a community devoted to shaping the future of economics and public policy.

HOW TO APPLY: Applications are open!

The programme will be ran in four waves.
Easter, March-April: 30th March-2nd April and 7th April-10th April
Summer, July: 6th-9th and 13th-16th

You will need to submit a CV, a covering letter, and write a response to a short answer question. Your covering letter is to be addressed to Mr. Samuel Cruickshank, and should articulate your reasons for wanting to participate.

When completing the application form, please choose between the Easter intake and the Summer intake. The Easter intake takes place over the Easter holidays, and the Summer intake is scheduled for the Summer holidays.

You must specify which intake you are applying for; however, we cannot guarantee which specific week you will be assigned to.

Due to the high volume of applications, we cannot guarantee a response to individual email queries. Please note that submissions will only be accepted through the application form. Any applications that are created or significantly assisted by generative AI will not be considered.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Easter: Applications Close 23:59 GMT on 1st February 2026. Offers released by 13th February 2026.

Summer: Applications Close 23:59 GMT on 30th April 2026. Offers released by 14th May 2026

COST: The programme is free, but participants will need to cover their own travel, food, and accommodation. There is a student opportunity fund available if required.

The programme will be fully on-site at our office in Westminster, London.

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