You will hear that there are many different routes into a job after graduation. Here we outline two different routes - graduate training schemes and direct entry roles - and how you can secure the right one for you.
Fact file: Graduate training scheme
What are they?
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A structured period of training lasting between one and three years
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There are general management schemes where you move around the business and then specialise
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There are functional schemes where you specialise from day one, for example HR, IT and supply chain management
Who offers them?
- Mostly offered by large companies across a range of sectors including the public sector, accountancy, engineering, IT and telecommunications, retail and pharmaceuticals
When and how to apply?
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Half of the UK's leading employers now recruit graduates all year round
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For employers with a single deadline, most are either November, December or January
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The recruitment process is likely to include an application form, psychometric tests, interviews and an assessment centre
Where to find vacancies?
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Attend our recruitment fairs and talk to recruiters directly
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MyCareer, our vacancy job board
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Graduate directories such as The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers available outside our office for free
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Use the vacancy sources listed on our website
Fact file: Direct entry
What are they?
- Often single vacancies with immediate start dates
- The advert may specify a degree is required
Who offers them?
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Companies of any size and sector
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Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) recruit significant numbers of graduates. These firms make up 99% of all UK private-sector businesses
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In some sectors SMEs dominate and so direct entry is the route in. For example, within public relations, digital marketing and the environmental sector
When and how to apply?
Where to find vacancies?
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MyCareer, our vacancy job board
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National job sites, LinkedIn, national and specialist press sites, industry specific job boards, recruitment agencies
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Use the vacancy sources listed on our website
After researching more, I realised the Civil Service Fast Stream offered a unique chance to develop leadership skills, gain experience in different departments, and make a real difference early on in my career.
The team recognised my contribution and offered me a full-time business data scientist role after my degree.
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