Getting a graduate job in the public sector

Find out what skills employers in the public sector want and where you can find a job...

Do I need a related degree?

There are many opportunities for graduates from any discipline in the public sector. However, some areas, such as teaching and social work, require specific subjects.

Find out what the options with your subject are.

What skills do employers want?

Employment-related skills that are sought across the public sector include:

• strong communication skills;
• the ability to use initiative and work under pressure;
• calmness in emergency situations;
• leadership skills and strong motivation;
• a sense of personal responsibility and integrity;
• the ability to relate to a diverse range of people.

Where can I get work experience?

To find work experience in a government department, try writing to the human resources (HR) manager and asking if there are any work experience schemes available.

One example of a formal programme is the Government Legal Service (GLS) , which offers around 70 places on its vacation scheme. Placements run between June and September and last for two to three weeks.

There are also specialised jobs boards, such as Local Government Talent: Jobs , where you can search for work placements.

To find work placements and internships in the public sector, search for work experience.

How do I find a graduate job in the public sector?

Depending on the role you want to do, there are different routes to finding a job and various methods of applying. For example, each local council has a jobs website where you can find general vacancies advertised for all levels.

There are a number of graduate programmes available in the public sector. One of the most prominent is the Civil Service Fast Stream . The scheme has opportunities for a variety of people including economists, social researchers and HR professionals.

The Prison Service runs the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) Graduate Programme , which trains graduates to be managers.

To find job vacancies, search graduate jobs in the public sector.