I keep seeing these 'returnship' programmes advertised — paid placements for people returning after a career break. Has anyone actually done one? Were they worth it? I'm wondering if it's a good stepping stone or just box-ticking from big companies.
I did the Zurich Insurance one a couple of years ago and it was genuinely brilliant. 6 months, fully paid, proper work not tea-making. I got a permanent offer at the end. The cohort of returnees was brilliant too — so supportive.
Amazon, Natwest, and Goldman Sachs all run them. Also worth looking at the 'Return to Work' programme run by Women Returners — they have a list of partner companies. The quality varies but the top ones are legitimate career relaunches.
One thing to know — they're competitive! Treat the application like a real job. Tailor your cover letter, prepare for competency questions. Don't assume it's a soft option just because it's aimed at returners.