Thanks to Sophie Finlayson, one of this year’s Civil Service Fast Stream reps, for this quick guide to the UK Civil Service Fast Stream graduate programme. University of Edinburgh graduates are usually well represented in each year’s fast stream intake, and if you are interested in this option we would encourage you to talk to the Civil Service Fast Stream reps on campus, and make use of the support we can provide too.
Has a career in the Civil Service ever crossed your mind?
Unless you know someone who works in government, it can be pretty hard to imagine what a role there might involve. Jobs like ‘Change Manager’, ‘Digitiser’ or ‘Programme Support Officer’ are hardly as recognisable as your traditional doctor, lawyer, or teacher. I can’t say I’ve seen many school children dressed as ‘Policy Officers’ for careers day.
Yet, in 2017 more than 40,000 graduates registered for the Fast Stream application process in the hopes of becoming a Civil Servant. Fancy that.
What does a Civil Servant do?
In a nutshell, civil servants are the people who run the country. They build and maintain public services, and think of ways to solve some of the complex problems we face as a nation. From transport and taxes to health and education, Civil Servants are hard at work behind the scenes.
What is the Fast Stream?
The Fast Stream is a graduate scheme which takes up to 1000 people each year, from all walks of life, and trains them to be leaders in the Civil Service. There are 15 different schemes available in the Fast Stream. From specialist schemes such as HR, Finance or Digital, Data and Technology to the Generalist scheme, there is no shortage of opportunities to meet everyone’s ambitions. Schemes generally last between 3 and 4 years and offer graduates the chance to work in a wide range of different roles and departments across the UK.
Who can apply?
Graduates with at least a 2.2 degree in any subject can apply for a place on the Fast Stream. You should have a real passion for public good and aptitude for learning new skills
The Civil Service wants its workforce to be diverse and representative of the people it serves. Therefore the Fast Stream wants hard working graduates from all walks of life to become future leaders who really reflect our modern nation.
What if I need extra support at work?
No problem! Reasonable adjustments are always made for people with caring responsibilities, additional needs or disabilities.
When can I apply?
Applications are open now, with successful applicants starting on the scheme from September 2019. Applications are only open for a few weeks so make sure you don’t miss out!
Where can I get more information?
Visit: www.faststream.gov.uk and speak to the Edinburgh University Fast Stream reps at the following events:
- Careers Fair – 10th October (Day 2)
- Careers in the Public Service: Civil Service Fast Stream – 16th October
- Careers in the Public Service: Public Sector Graduate Schemes – 5th November
Visit https://www.ed.ac.uk/careers/about-us/what-we-do/iag-services for information on how the Careers Service can support you.
Image: CC0, FirmBee on Pixabay
