New Internship Programme Aims to Boost Working Class Representation in Civil Service
A new Summer Internship Programme aimed at increasing social mobility in the Civil Service has been announced, targeting talented students from working class backgrounds.
The scheme, part of the government’s broader Plan for Change, will offer around 200 undergraduates the chance to spend two months working in a Civil Service department in summer 2026, gaining hands-on experience and support that could lead to a career at the heart of government.
“We need to get more working class young people into the Civil Service so it harnesses the broadest range of talent and truly reflects the country,” said Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
“Government makes better decisions when it represents and understands the people we serve.”
Breaking Down Barriers
The internship is designed to address longstanding inequality in access to top government roles. Currently, students from lower socio-economic backgrounds are underrepresented in schemes such as the Civil Service Fast Stream, a prestigious graduate programme that leads to senior leadership positions.
“I want to open up opportunities for students from all backgrounds, and in every corner of the UK,” added McFadden, “so they can take a leading role at the heart of government as we re-wire the state and deliver the Plan for Change.”
Participants will be paid during their placement and will take part in meaningful activities such as writing ministerial briefings, assisting with policy research, shadowing senior officials, and helping to organise events.
They’ll also receive tailored guidance, including a Fast Stream “buddy” and access to skill-building workshops. Those who perform well may be fast-tracked to the final stage of the Fast Stream selection process post-graduation.
Widening Access Across the UK
Applications for the internship programme will open in October 2025, with placements beginning the following summer. The initiative follows a recent expansion in Civil Service career access, including the Career Launch apprenticeship scheme for school leavers, and a new goal to offer 50% of Fast Stream roles outside London by 2030.
The Civil Service Fast Stream is consistently ranked among the top graduate schemes in the UK, offering high-achieving individuals a fast-track to senior roles in government.
