The MMU Summer Finance Project was a collaborative one-week initiative between Tameside & Glossop NHS Foundation Trust (TGH) and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) designed to give finance and accounting students real-world work experience. The hybrid project involved 20 students working in teams to review and improve the Trust’s Finance Board Reports, applying their academic knowledge to real NHS data. The week included training on NHS finance, team-based project work, presentations to a judging panel, and careers sessions showcasing NHS pathways and the Graduate Management Scheme. The winning team received trophies and a day of work experience at the Trust. The project successfully enhanced students’ understanding of public sector finance, boosted interest in NHS careers, and strengthened ties between MMU and TGH, with both organisations planning to continue and expand the initiative in future years. Read the full case study below.