Civil Service Graduate Fast Stream 2014

I'm in


.......my third attempt

Apparently most Fast Streamers made it onto the scheme after at least two attempts!

Do you know what part of the Scheme you are interested in?

Last year, I was torn between GFS and HR, but went with GFS mostly because that scheme allowed me to add TiB as well. I failed GFS online selection test but passed FSAC for TiB, only to fail the TiB FSB.

I learnt a lot from the process, and the FSAC Report is invaluable. In hindsight, I'm convinced that TiB is not the right career path for me. Tbh, I'm relieved I failed the TiB FSB.

So, this year, I'm sticking to HR because I'm passionate about it, and have practical experience in that area because at least 50% of tasks in my current role involves HR.

Which scheme are you interested in?

Definitely not. In fact, the Civil Service is probably one of the better employers to re-enter the market with in terms of not facing prejudice over being out of the market in recent years. The recruitment exercise for both the Fast Stream (and for quite a few other CS posts) is online test based, interview (based on competencies) and assessment centre based. This means you have as good a shot as anyone if you perform well in the tests and demonstrate the competencies.

If it helps you from a confidence perspective, there were several in their 30s at my eTray event last year in London.

Interesting to read your post dj_macky. I got to AC for TiB but withdrew. I just didn't feel it was me. Interestingly enough, half of the TiBers I met along the way were having similar feelings. I wonder what their outcomes were.

I will probably throw my hat in again this year. For HoP and EFS probably...though I am not sure if both those streams require you choose them as first choice.. (I forget which depts have that ruling). If both do, then I must choose between them.

Thank you. That helps knowing I hopefully won't be the oldest there!

Also, on a completely practical note, what is the salary for London based fast streamers? (Is there London weighting?) I'll have childcare and commuting costs to take into consideration.

In terms of preparing for the e-tray test, how useful is the practice one that they've supplied?

sorry if this is obvious but if you get onto to the civil service in central departments , do you have to work in London ? Are there opportunities elsewhere or are you given a place ? thanks

Most placements are in London, but not all. You have to be flexible as you could be placed anywhere in the country, and you don't really get to choose. Your placements will also probably not be in the same location.