Policy Trainee

Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is the biggest student network in Europe, with over 530 local organisations (“sections”) active in Higher Education Institutions in 45 countries. ESN has been supporting student mobility since 1989 and has its international headquarters in Brussels.

The international headquarters in Brussels is looking for an Erasmus+ Intern as a Policy Trainee to work in the policy field in the spring of 2024, to start in the middle of April. 

The position is perfect for students/recent graduates looking to start their careers in the education, policy and project management fields in one of Europe’s most important NGOs. No previous work experience is needed, but experience in volunteering organisations is highly desirable.

Main tasks and responsibilities

The trainee will be a part of the Policy Department of ESN, supporting ESN´s effort to improve internationalisation opportunities for students and advocating on behalf of students towards European institutions, National Agencies and other stakeholders for better mobility programmes and policies.

The trainee will support the development of programmes and policies of the European Union, such as the Erasmus+ programme and work together with other civil society organisations. The trainee will also work with other members of ESN’s Policy Department to create key materials related to EU-funded projects, acquiring direct hands-on experience and knowledge in the area.

ESN believes in the role of traineeships as educational experiences, and therefore our trainees are also encouraged to propose new ideas, projects and initiatives they believe ESN should implement.

Specifically, the trainee will be focusing on the following tasks: 

• Monitor and report on various policy and political developments related to Higher Education policies in Europe, Erasmus + and other mobility programmes; 

• Assist the ESN International’s team in developing and implementing projects related to international student mobility, education and youth work;

• Conduct desk research on various policy issues within the fields mentioned above; 

• Support the preparation of events and meetings, including drafting memos, presentations, and briefing materials for both internal and external meetings; 

• Draft positions and advocacy plans in cooperation with the Policy Department; 

• Assist the ESN Headquarters. 

 Terms and conditions

• Traineeship for a duration of 6 months; 

• The successful applicant should start on the 15th of April, ideally;

• Must have an Erasmus+ traineeship grant. Please note that this is a mandatory requirement, as ESN does not have the means to cover any other subsistence costs other than the ones mentioned in the bullet points below. Self-maintenance of the trainee is not an option, as ESN is a strong advocate for fair and paid internships and follows The European Quality Charter;

• Accommodation costs of up to 450 EUR per month are reimbursed.

• Transport costs within Brussels are covered.

• Public Liability and Personal Accident Insurance are covered.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Fluent in written and spoken English;

• Interest and knowledge of EU affairs, policies and decision-making processes;

• Experience in a volunteer-led organisation;

• A structured and reliable way of working;

• Comfortable working in a multicultural and diverse environment;

• Highly proactive attitude. Not afraid of proposing changes and taking ownership of delegated tasks;

• Knowledge of ESN is a plus.

To apply, please upload your motivation letter, and CV to this form by the 23rd of February at 23:59 CEST. 

Before applying, please confirm with your university that you are eligible for an Erasmus+ traineeship grant.

Please note: this is a Brussels-based position; the successful candidate is expected to move to Brussels by the start date in April. 

If you have any additional questions regarding the position, please contact [email protected]. For more information on ESN, please visit our website esn.org.