Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a recent graduate? How do you feel you can use your degree in the Civil Service?
I studied for an undergraduate degree in Mathematics from the University of Bath and did a year-long industrial placement as part of the course. I knew I didn’t want to go back to market research after graduating and I also realised I wasn’t done with learning, so I did a master’s in Statistics and Data Science.
After completing that course, I had a week-long summer holiday and joined the Government Statistical Service Fast Stream in September 2020. I completed my time on the scheme, graduating in July 2024.
The technical skills I learned through both of my degrees were invaluable to my Fast Stream roles and to the impact I made in each of them.
What led you to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream programme?
While studying for my master’s in Statistics and Data Science, I was keen to find a career that would allow me to apply my technical skills in a way that made a real-world impact. The Civil Service Fast Stream stood out as a unique opportunity to do just that – combining analytical work with leadership development and exposure to a wide range of policy areas. The programme’s structure, which encourages continuous learning and professional growth, really appealed to me. It felt like the perfect environment to challenge myself, broaden my skill set, and contribute meaningfully to public service.
How did you first hear about the programme?
I discovered the Fast Stream while researching graduate programmes that offer both career progression and the chance to make a difference. What caught my attention was how the scheme opens doors to varied roles across government, allowing you to work on projects that directly affect people’s lives. The more I learned, the more I saw it as a powerful platform for those who want to use their skills to drive positive change and grow into future leadership roles.
How have the skills and knowledge you have acquired through the Fast Stream training helped you in shaping your future?
The training allowed me to be more confident in myself and my ways of working. It showed me that I don’t have all the answers and people didn’t expect me to be an expert immediately. The experience made me more effective as a leader as it taught me how to draw on multiple different leadership styles that influenced me personally as I moved through the programme.
Since graduating, I have now moved into my first leadership role combining the analytical work I enjoy with the responsibilities that come with leading a team, utilising the tools that the Fast Stream provided me with.
Is a STEM degree beneficial to working in the Civil Service?
The technical expertise that I have from my background in mathematics and statistics has been invaluable during my time as a civil servant. I have been able to push projects forward due to my technical skills and provide technical leadership to the teams I have worked in.
However, if you don’t have a STEM degree it is not a blocker to joining the scheme. Problem- solving skills and the ability to think logically and methodically were also important skills to have, especially when working under pressure.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying
to the programme?
Prepare well, be yourself and keep an open mind. It’s an exciting time in government and the shift to using innovative technologies is happening right in front of us. That being said, if you don’t have a technical background, the Fast Stream will provide the perfect opportunity to learn those skills on the job.