From Graduate Scheme to Defence HQ: A Neurodiverse Perspective on the Civil Service Fast Stream

Unsure of your next step after university? We speak to a recent graduate who navigated the prestigious Civil Service Fast Stream, turning a passion for history into a rewarding permanent role at the Ministry of Defence. Discover their path and top tips for success.

Can you tell me a bit about how you first heard about the Civil Service / Fast Stream?

I had already decided I would apply for some kind of graduate scheme when I finished my masters, and I have a family member working in the Civil Service who recommended it as a great place to work. I heard specifically about the Fast Stream through careers advisors at college and university and found out more by speaking to older friends.

What it the Fast Stream and why did you choose this route into the Civil Service?

The Civil Service Fast Stream is a prestigious graduate development programme run by the UK government. Its purpose is to identify and develop future leaders for the Civil Service by offering structured training, varied placements, and accelerated career progression across different government departments.

The Fast Stream is highly regarded for its reputation as the UK’s top graduate employer, and it provides opportunities to work on high-profile policies and projects that have a real impact on society. It’s designed for graduates who want to make a difference, develop leadership skills, and build a meaningful career in public service.

When I was finishing university, I wasn’t exactly sure what field I wanted to go into. That uncertainty made the Fast Stream especially appealing to me because as a Fast Streamer, you rotate through several roles over a few years, gaining experience in different areas and building a broad skillset. I also liked that you apply for up to five different Fast Stream schemes (such as HR, Digital, Policy, etc.), and are then assessed slightly differently for each one, so the scheme you end up on is genuinely the best fit for your skills and interests.

What attracted you to the Army as a posting?

For my second HR Fast Stream placement, I selected the Ministry of Defence (MOD) as my top option. Having completed a master’s degree in the History of War, I have always had a strong interest in defence, so the MOD felt like a natural fit for me. I was also keen to take on the challenge of business partnering in a large, operational department, where the work is fast-paced and impactful.

As someone with neurodiversity, I wanted to see if the MOD would be a place where I felt comfortable and supported, especially with the relative safety net that comes from being on the Fast Stream. I am pleased to say that my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. I have felt included and valued, and I have enjoyed my time so much that I have chosen to stay on now that I have successfully completed the Fast Stream. This placement has allowed me to combine my academic interests with professional growth, and I am excited to continue my career in defence.

I have had the opportunity to accompany senior officers on trips around the UK, Germany, and Northern Ireland, which has given me valuable insight into the work of different parts of the Army. Recently, I attended a battlefield study in Sicily, where we explored Operation Husky in 1943 and discussed what lessons could be applied to the work of my department. Not only was this a genuinely enjoyable trip that allowed me to get to know colleagues I otherwise wouldn’t have met, but I also found the academic aspect especially interesting and rewarding.

Beyond these experiences, I have really enjoyed meeting and talking to people with very different life and career backgrounds than my own. The variety of people I get to work with has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time in the Army, and I have gained a much broader perspective as a result.

I have now completed the Fast Stream, which was both challenging and rewarding. Upon successful completion of the scheme, individuals are guaranteed a Grade 7 role within the Civil Service. Different Fast Stream schemes have their own processes for securing a permanent role; for me, this involved a Grade 7 style interview focused on behaviours and strengths, as well as submitting a portfolio of written work that showcased examples from across my placements.

I am proud to say that I was offered a permanent HR Business Partner role in the Ministry of Defence. There was a need in the team, and my colleagues felt I was a good fit, which was a huge compliment and a testament to the relationships and reputation I built during my placements. Securing this role has been a fantastic next step, and I am excited to continue contributing to the MOD, building on everything I learned and achieved during the Fast Stream.

Any advice you'd give to someone looking join the MOD / joining the fast stream?

My main advice is to keep an open mind and not be discouraged if you are unsuccessful in your first Fast Stream application. Everyone’s journey is different, and there are so many routes into the Civil Service and Defence. I have had colleagues who left the scheme early to pursue a different path that suited them better, and others who weren’t successful for the Fast Stream but have gone on to be hugely successful and really enjoyed forging their own path.

If you are interested in working in the Civil Service or Defence, don’t let one setback stop you from applying for other roles that interest you. There are a huge variety of opportunities, and you might find a role that’s an even better fit for your skills and interests.

Specifically, I would encourage anyone interested to:

• Familiarise yourself with Civil Service Success Profiles: These outline the behaviours, strengths, and skills expected for different roles. Take time to read through them and understand what recruiters are looking for.
• Practise the STAR format: When preparing for applications and interviews, use the Situation, Task, Action, Result structure to clearly demonstrate your experiences and achievements. This is a key part of the Civil Service application process.
• Network actively:

Use LinkedIn to connect with people working in roles or departments that interest you.

Attend alumni events and career fairs to broaden your understanding of what’s out there.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to hiring managers listed on job adverts for career conversations. These can provide invaluable insights and advice.

• Be open-minded about your career path: You might discover new interests and strengths in areas you hadn’t previously considered. Many people find their niche in unexpected places.
• Don’t worry if your degree doesn’t directly match the job: Transferable skills like research, communication, problem-solving, and working independently are highly valued across the Civil Service and Defence.
• Explore all available opportunities:

If you are not successful with the Fast Stream, look at other entry routes and keep an eye on civil service jobs for vacancies.

The Direct Appointment Scheme is a great option for those who just missed the Fast Stream pass mark, as it offers roles within the Civil Service. If you are eligible, you will be contacted by the Fast Stream team.

• Value your unique perspective: Be authentic in applications, don’t be afraid to ask for reasonable adjustments where necessary, and advocate for reasonable adjustments and diversity wherever you can. Your experiences, whether related to background, neurodiversity, or anything else, are valuable and can help drive positive change.
• Stay resilient and persistent: The application process can be competitive, but perseverance pays off. Everyone’s journey is different, and there are many ways to make a meaningful impact.

Ultimately, there is no single ‘right’ way to build a career in the Civil Service or Defence. The most important thing is to give yourself the best possible chance by putting an application in, preparing well, and being your authentic self.

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