With a growing demand for analytical services, a career in statistics puts you at the heart of decision making in government
Duration
4 years
Salary
£28k
Location
UK-wide
The GSS is an independent body working together to provide the statistical insight required by decision makers.
Roles in the GSS support the production of official statistics alongside analysis and advice, providing a firm evidence base for decision making both inside and outside of government.
As a GSS fast streamer you will be joining the Government Statistical Service’s flagship training scheme for future statistical leaders.
Over the four-year scheme you will experience statistical work in a range of government departments as you build up the skills and knowledge needed to progress to senior leadership roles in the GSS and across the civil service.
For more information about the GSS please see the GSS website.
Your roles will consist of a combination of:
Year 1 - In your first year you’ll work in a government department. You will work on projects like; research and analysis of data, developing new data sources, user engagement, working in policy teams, data science roles etc… You will use your statistical skills to innovate and solve problems in data management and analysis using a range of software packages and analytical techniques.
Year 2 - You will move into a new Government Department in another statistics-based role. You will have more challenge and opportunity to further develop your leadership capability. You can expect to see your analysis being used by decision makers in government and industry. You may often be required to give advice and inform policy decisions.
Year 3 - You will undertake either a 6-month ‘complementary’ posting in a further government department or a ‘secondment’ posting. A complementary posting is working in an area different to statistics such as policy or finance. A secondment is working in either a private sector organisation or a charity/not for profit organisation. Which would be most suitable for you will be based on your development needs, previous posting experience whilst on the scheme and any previous employment and experience prior to joining the Fast Stream. You will then finish the scheme moving in to a Y4 18 month posting to the end of the scheme.
Year 4 - An end of scheme 18-month placement. For the final posting you will go to another government department undertaking a role that will firmly test the statistical and leadership skills you have developed throughout the programme. Upon successful completion of the scheme you will have the opportunity to be promoted to a Grade 7 position where you will lead a team delivering statistical projects.
A boundless range of opportunities - from working on delivering Brexit to producing statistics on baby names!
A boundless range of opportunities - from working on delivering Brexit to producing statistics on baby names!
A boundless range of opportunities - from working on delivering Brexit to producing statistics on baby names!
A boundless range of opportunities - from working on delivering Brexit to producing statistics on baby names!
There will be a wide range of activities to support your learning and development in your roles. You won’t be expected to have in-depth knowledge of all areas on day one.
Your formal learning offer will consist of:
Up to £55k
If you successfully complete the scheme and are promoted, you'll earn around £45k to £55k.
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.
