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Finance scheme

Scheme duration

4 years

Location

UK wide

Scheme overview

On the Finance Fast Stream, you’ll make your mark on some of the most important economic and financial issues facing the UK.

Who is the scheme suitable for

You’ll work across job types in the Finance Career Framework, gaining practical experience to complement the knowledge you will gain through studying for your professional qualification.

You will also have the opportunity to engage with senior stakeholders both inside and outside of government from day one. You will build relationships and play a key role in integrating finance into the core of the decision making process at the Civil Service. This will involve delivering value for money and strengthening public trust.

In order to complete the scheme, you must successfully complete your professional accounting qualification which involves passing up to 16 exams and logging the required experience.

Qualification, promotion and successful completion of the scheme will see you earn between £45k to £55k.

Entry requirements

  • eligible to work in the UK
  • you need, or expect to receive a 2:1 or higher in any degree subject including degree apprenticeships
  • existing civil servants can apply without a degree

The benefits you’ll enjoy

You’ll have a unique chance to work on issues that really matter to individuals and communities across the UK. It’s a great foundation for long-term career progression in the Government Finance Function and to set you up for success as a future finance leader.

Other benefits include the Civil Service Pension Scheme, professional qualifications, flexible working, season ticket loans, sports and social activities, child care assistance and more.

Demystifying the Finance scheme

Supporting your learning

You’ll receive support to enable you to become a Civil Service finance professional, including:

  • access to Government Finance Function and Government Finance Academy training, events, and resources
  • cross-government projects to gain a broad range of technical skills
  • a buddy to help you prepare to join the Fast Stream, and to settle you into the department
  • a qualified and trained mentor and cohort leader
  • membership of the Finance Fast Stream Forum (a network of fellow Finance fast streamers)
  • a professional accountancy qualification
  • a cohort undertaking the same qualification as you to provide support and peer learning opportunities
  • opportunity to meet members of the professional bodies, including their current students and recently qualified accountants
  • free registration and annual membership with the professional body and tuition provided.
  • paid for learning materials, tuition, exams and any exemption fees, plus study leave

Laura talks about her experience on the Finance scheme, and why she chose to apply.

Read Laura’s story

“The opportunity to be part of placing finance at the heart of decision making. The breadth of finance experience you get whilst on the Fast Stream and the ability to apply your expertise on a range of policies is second to none.

You’re making the most of public money, and you’re joining the Finance Family across Government Finance, setting you up for an interesting and exciting career in Government Finance.”

Jake Mason

Finance fast streamer

Finance fast streamer, Jake

About the scheme

As a Finance fast streamer, you will work in some of the most fascinating, high profile environments in government and will be part of a 10,000-strong Government Finance Function community based all over the UK. Strong financial management and placing finance at the heart of senior decision making is vitally important in the Civil Service. 

You’ll help shape the government’s financial policy and make sure that public services are delivered effectively and efficiently. You will also gain a professional accountancy qualification to equip you with the knowledge and skills for a career in government finance.

Scheme placement details

There are up to 5 placements in total.

Show more

You’ll complete three one-year placements across different departments where you will gain a variety of experience across the Finance Career Framework. This will equip you with a broad range of technical skills and capabilities.

You will become part of the Government Finance Function, gaining access to a community of finance professionals and useful training and resources.

We highly recommend making the most of opportunities to work on high-profile projects where you can, including cross-government projects.

During your placements, you will advance in your accountancy qualification through both exam preparation and practical work experience. Effective time management, balancing multiple priorities, and studying on your own time will be essential for your success.

You will be expected to have completed your accountancy qualification by the end of Year 3 on the programme.

In your final year, you will either spend six months on a secondment working in finance outside of central government and six months in another finance role, or complete another one-year finance posting.

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