Latest news: Civil Service Fast Stream opens

The graduate scheme will open for applications on 17 September 2012 with a more structured career path than previous years. 11/09/2012

As part of the civil service reform plan, this year sees improved career development and management to the scheme. These changes will have a key role to play in strengthening the capability of the service, equipping Fast Streamers with a wider range of skills and experiences across multiple departments and sectors.

The Civil Service Fast Stream is a talent management programme for the country's brightest graduates who demonstrate the potential to become future leaders of the Civil Service. It is consistently ranked in the top ten of The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers.

To mark the opening of the scheme, cabinet secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood will host a live question and answer session on Facebook on 20 September from 2pm to 3pm. This will give anyone interested in applying the opportunity to get thoughts and advice on a career in the Civil Service from the prime minister's most senior policy adviser. To take part, visit Facebook - Fast Stream.

The scheme enables graduates to make a real impact on people's lives in the UK and the wider world, working in areas including: education; the economy; foreign affairs; defence policy; health and the environment.

'The Fast Stream continues to be an incredibly valuable source of new talent and provides the Civil Service with the means to recruit its leaders of the future,' said Sir Heywood.

For more information and to apply visit Civil Service - Fast Stream.