We’re celebrating our fifth year of Agency Bootcamp, our week of virtual work experience in which you’ll learn vital skills to help you build a rewarding career in marketing.

What’s Agency Bootcamp?

Launching in August 2020, our week of marketing work experience took place under pandemic lockdown conditions, with people dialling in from round the UK and overseas.

We’re proud to say that the initiative worked so well, that we did it again in 2021, and again…and now in 2024 it’ll be the fifth year.

We’ve been delighted to see attendees go on to start exciting careers in marketing and communications with impressive organisations such as M&C Saatchi, Hotel Chocolat, Allia Future Business, and the Civil Service.

“When people ask me about my proudest moments in running Sookio, our Bootcamp initiative is right up there,” says Founder Sue Keogh. “Knowing that we’ve played our part in levelling the playing field and helping more than 100 people get into the industry, puts a massive smile on my face.”

“It’s that ethos of ‘lift as we climb.’ We’re all about opening things up. We’ve had people on Zoom calls juggling poorly toddlers. Dialling in from Sierra Leone and needing a generator to stay on the call. And lots of people at graduate level who are just starting out and want a glimpse of what it’s really like to work in marketing and communications.

“It says a lot about the Sookio team too - everyone is always so happy to give their time for free and share their personal insights to inspire others.

“I’m excited to be able to launch our 5th year of Agency Bootcamp and can’t wait to meet everyone in August.”

What happens during the week?

We’ll take you behind the scenes at a leading marketing agency and tell you all the things that no one else tells you!

• Daily spotlights on team members, helping you discover the many different roles that make up a marketing agency and our routes to getting there

• Spark your imagination with creative challenges in key areas such as copywriting, video, strategy and sales - giving you something tangible for your portfolio

• LinkedIn training, giving you practical advice on boosting your network and profile

• And to celebrate our 5th anniversary, on Careers Day on the Friday we’re inviting Bootcamp alumni back to talk about their journeys since taking part - fantastic for anyone seeking some real-world inspiration early in their marketing career!

Applications now open closed for 2024

Dates: 9am to 5pm, Monday 12 to Friday 16 August

Location: All remote, taking place over Zoom

Deadline for applications: 28 June 2024

Although applications are closed we can always squeeze a few more in if you ask nicely! Please fill in the application form as soon as possible. You’ll also find essential information on this page on eligibility criteria and how to take part.

What do people say about Bootcamp?

“I really enjoyed the spotlight sessions on different members of the team- getting to know them and what a typical day looks like was really helpful. There was a nice mix of more general skills information, as well as a relaxed approach to what kind of roles they fulfil day to day. It was especially interesting to listen to people who are just starting out to see how they got into their role and what more junior positions might look like.”

- Bootcamp attendee

“I enjoyed all the sessions and exercises but if I have to highlight one it will be the Copywriter day and the employability day. All the advisors have been very helpful. I consider it was amazing because we were learning on Zoom and then we practiced with the activities. It has been a complete experience. This placement gave me the chance to start in the professional world. I consider my resume is more attractive for employers thanks to this experience. Thank you.”

- Bootcamp attendee

“Really enjoyed the mix of Zoom calls and tasks to do in the meantime. I thought the tasks were well thought out and struck a nice balance between challenging and doable. Careers advice on the Friday I found the most valuable, loads of great tips I haven't heard before which I’ll definitely use!”

- Bootcamp attendee