Civil Service Graduate Scheme
Are you interested in a career in the civil service? The Civil Service graduate scheme, known as the Civil Service Fast Stream, is the perfect option for anyone looking to kickstart their career in the civil service. Read on to find out more.
What is the Civil Service Fast Stream?
The Civil Service Fast Stream is the best route for ambitious graduates seeking to become senior leaders in the Civil Service. With its combination of hands-on experience, specialised training and accelerated career progression, the highly competitive scheme propels top talent into influential roles where they can shape national policy and public services.
Types of Civil Service Fast Streamer
Available across 15 career paths, the Fast Stream welcomes applicants from all degree disciplines and backgrounds. Whether you study general arts, social sciences, STEM, law or business, there are opportunities to utilise your knowledge.
The 15 paths in the Civil Service Fast Stream to choose from are:
- Government economic service
- Government statistical service
- Government operational research
- Government social research
- Generalist
- Diplomatic service
- Human resources
- Houses of Parliament
- Diplomatic service economics
- Digital, data and technology
- Commercial
- Science and Engineering
- Finance
- Project delivery
- Property
What To Expect
Once accepted into the programme, Fast Streamers quickly gain experience across multiple government bodies through short placements of 6-12 months. One day you may be developing policies in Westminster, and the next managing complex logistics for frontline public services. This exposure builds a portfolio of expertise while allowing you to network widely.
In your placements, you’ll collaborate with stakeholders, formulate evidence-based policies, tackle issues innovatively, and deliver measurable results – all while building leadership capabilities. Your responsibilities will ramp up rapidly. Starting salaries of £27,000-£28,000 also rise steeply with promotions.
Civil Service Fast Stream Application
The application process is robust with online testing, video interviews and assessment centres to evaluate your strategic thinking, communication skills, integrity and other competencies. Competition is fierce for the limited positions available each year. However, preparation programmes and internships can boost your chances.
Professional Development
Once selected, your training will be world-class – on-the-job learning paired with mentoring, workshops, formal qualifications and more. Ongoing career development allows you to continue advancing as your experience grows. Through dedication and excellence in your role, you could join the senior Civil Service ranks in under a decade.
Finding Civil Service Graduate Schemes
So, if you have a strong record of achievement, a passion for public service, and a pioneering spirit, the Civil Service Fast Stream gives graduates an opportunity to make a real difference to life in the UK. The opportunity and challenge is immense, but the rewards match the effort and your career impact will start from day one.
Make use of Developing a Student’s Graduate Job Board for all the latest graduate scheme opportunities near you.
If you need help and advice for graduates, our team will guide you in areas like confidence tips for recent graduates and how to make yourself employable as a graduate, among many more.
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