On the Government Communications Fast Stream, you won't just read the headlines. You'll help to make them.
Duration
4 years
Salary
£28k
Location
UK-wide
The Government Communication Service Fast Stream launched in 2015 to recruit and develop the profession's next generation of leaders. On this scheme you'll reach out to our audiences, supporting awareness and engagement with some of the most important issues in our society.
Working with senior leaders and Ministers in a fast-paced environment, you'll learn about leading world-class communications. Communications that support Ministers' priorities, improve people's lives and enable the effective operation of our public services.
Promotion and successful completion of the scheme will see you earn around £45k to £55k. When you've finished the programme, you could be leading a communications team or even a directorate.
You'll work across a range of departments and communications disciplines. You might be working in a busy press office, an innovative internal communications team or on campaigns and marketing, using public relations and low cost media.
You'll have the opportunity to work with senior leaders and ministers in a fast-paced environment.
Years 1 & 2 - You will rotate around 4 different communications disciplines doing 6 month placements in 2 departments.
Your placements will focus on the key disciplines across the Government Communication Service:
External Affairs
Internal Communications
Media &
Marketing
Years 1 & 2 - You will rotate around 4 different communications disciplines doing 6 month placements in 2 departments.
Your placements will focus on the key disciplines across the Government Communication Service:
External Affairs
Internal Communications
Media &
Marketing
Year 3 - You'll have one 12-month placement in your third year where you'll be able to build deeper expertise in a communications discipline.
Year 4 – In your final year you'll have one 12-month placement. This will consolidate the communications and leadership skills you've developed over the last 3 years preparing you for your End of Scheme Assessment and graduation from the scheme.
A carousel of challenges, learning and unique experiences
A carousel of challenges, learning and unique experiences
A carousel of challenges, learning and unique experiences
A carousel of challenges, learning and unique experiences
Up to £55k
If you successfully complete the scheme and are promoted, you could earn around £45k to £55k.
You'll have a unique chance to work on issues that really matter, and to gain experience internally and externally. It's the best foundation for promotion and long-term progression.
Other benefits include the Civil Service pension scheme, professional qualifications, flexible working, season ticket loans, sports and social activities, child care vouchers and more.
Online tests
The online tests consist of Work Style Questionnaires and multimedia Situational Judgement Questionnaires, Work Based Scenarios and a video interview.
You'll only move on to the next test, if you've successfully passed the previous one.
Assessment centre
If you pass the online tests, you'll be invited to attend a half day assessment centre in either London or Newcastle. The Fast Stream Assessment Centre (FSAC) reflects some of the key elements of a Fast Stream role and will consist of a leadership exercise, a group exercise and a written analysis exercise. Information is presented via an iPad tablet; alternative formats are available.
You can take a virtual tour of the assessment centres at the following links:
Final selection
If you are successful at the assessment centre, you'll be invited to take part in a final selection process.
The specialist assessments will assess your broad capabilities and motivation to be part of the profession you've chosen. You'll be sent detailed guidance before the assessment to explain what is involved.