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Ladan Mirzadeh-Hong

December 17th, 2024

Beyond the fast stream: A guide to five lesser-known public service graduate schemes

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Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Ladan Mirzadeh-Hong

December 17th, 2024

Beyond the fast stream: A guide to five lesser-known public service graduate schemes

0 comments | 1 shares

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Public service careers, many of which LSE students might not be aware of, offer LSE graduates the chance to make a meaningful impact while developing leadership and transferable skills. Whether shaping education, protecting communities, rehabilitating offenders, advising on government law, or contributing to the healthcare system, these roles are both fulfilling and dynamic.

This blog explores a range of key public service graduate schemes, their structure, and how you can start your journey.

But why should I consider these?

The skills and experience gained from these graduate schemes are highly transferable, equipping individuals with the versatility to pivot into a variety of roles across different sectors. For example, working in education or community protection develops leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable in project management, human resources, or corporate training. Experience in offender rehabilitation enhances empathy, conflict resolution, and organisational abilities, which are sought after in counselling, social work, or policy development.

Similarly, advising on government law hones analytical thinking and negotiation skills, paving the way for careers in consultancy, legal practice, or public relations. Contributing to the healthcare system fosters teamwork, adaptability, and an understanding of complex systems—qualities essential in roles like operations management, healthcare consultancy, or technology innovation. These foundational experiences provide a robust platform for transitioning into diverse and rewarding career paths.

1. Teaching

Teaching is more than a profession – it’s an opportunity to inspire and shape the minds of the future. Whether you aim to teach in schools or further education institutions, teaching is a career built on purpose and leadership.

Key graduate scheme: Teach First Leadership Development Programme
  • Overview: A two-year programme that places you in schools within low-income communities while earning a fully-funded Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).
  • Structure:
    • Year 1: Classroom-based training and mentorship.
    • Year 2: Fully qualified teaching, leadership development.
  • Eligibility: Minimum 2:1 degree, with subject-specific requirements.
  • Why consider it?
    • Make a difference in educational inequality.
    • Gain leadership and communication skills applicable across industries.
    • Progress into senior leadership roles in education settings and beyond.
  • Visit: https://www.teachfirst.org.uk/

2. Policing

Policing is a challenging and rewarding career that combines problem-solving with public service. Modern policing extends beyond traditional enforcement, focusing on community engagement and tackling complex societal issues.

Key graduate scheme: Police Now Graduate Leadership Programme
  • Overview: A two-year programme developing graduates into police leaders working to build safer communities.
  • Structure:
    • Year 1: Training and frontline police work.
    • Year 2: Specialisation opportunities and leadership projects.
  • Eligibility: Minimum 2:2 degree in any discipline.
  • Why consider it?
    • Engage directly with communities.
    • Progress into roles in cybercrime, counterterrorism, or senior leadership.
    • Gain transferable skills in decision-making, conflict resolution, and resilience.
  • Visit: https://www.policenow.org.uk/

3. Service

The prison service plays a critical role in reducing reoffending and promoting social rehabilitation. Working with offenders to rebuild their lives can be highly rewarding, combining frontline work with systemic impact.

Key graduate scheme: Unlocked Graduates Leadership Development Programme
  • Overview: A two-year leadership programme focused on prison reform, featuring a fully-funded master’s degree.
  • Structure:
    • Year 1: Prison officer training and leadership responsibilities.
    • Year 2: Policy work and opportunities to influence systemic change.
  • Eligibility: Minimum 2:1 degree in any discipline.
  • Why consider it?
    • Drive meaningful change in the justice system.
    • Develop advanced communication and leadership skills.
    • Transition into policy, advocacy, or related fields after the programme.
  • Visit: https://unlockedgrads.org.uk/

4. Government Legal Profession (GLP)

Legal professionals in the public sector have the unique opportunity to advise on significant national projects, influence policy, and uphold the rule of law. The GLP is an excellent route for LSE law students to use their expertise for public good.

Key graduate scheme: GLP Legal Trainee Scheme
  • Overview: Provides training contracts or pupillages in government departments such as the Treasury Solicitor’s Department, Home Office, or HMRC.
  • Structure:
    • Two-year training contract or pupillage.
    • Placements across public law, legislation, and litigation teams.
  • Eligibility: A qualifying law degree or law conversion course (GDL/PGDL) and LPC/BPTC.
  • Why consider it?
    • Contribute to high-profile cases affecting millions.
    • Work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment.
    • Progress into senior advisory or judicial roles.
  • Visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/government-legal-department

5. NHS

The NHS offers diverse roles beyond medicine, with leadership opportunities in management, policy, and data-driven decision-making. For graduates passionate about improving healthcare, the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme (GMTS) is a gateway to leadership.

Key graduate scheme: NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme
  • Overview: A two-year rotational programme across departments such as General Management, Health Informatics, Policy, and Strategy.
  • Structure:
    • Rotational placements tailored to your chosen specialisation.
    • Training, mentorship, and opportunities to lead projects.
  • Eligibility: Minimum 2:2 degree; some streams may have additional requirements.
  • Why consider it?
    • Be part of a globally respected health care system.
    • Develop strategic and operational skills.
    • Progress into leadership roles in the NHS or wider healthcare sector.
  • Visit: https://graduates.nhs.uk/

What makes public service graduate schemes stand out?

  1. Purposeful careers: Contribute to societal improvement through meaningful work.
  2. Professional development: Structured training and exposure to leadership roles.
  3. Diverse opportunities: Gain experience across departments and specialisations.
  4. Transferable skills: Build expertise in communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.

How can LSE Careers help?

Our team of careers consultants offer:

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About the author

Ladan Mirzadeh-Hong

Posted In: Applications | Career planning | Career research | Careers Advice | Decision making | LSE Careers | Public policy | Public sector | Recruitment

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