Annual stats on the number of people gunning for a spot on government Fast Stream programme show a massive spike in techie applicants as part of a wider overall rise
Interest in the government’s Fast Stream graduate programme has bounced back this year, with applications to the scheme’s digital track growing especially strongly.
Earlier this year it was revealed that Fast Stream applications had plummeted, with the volume of applications in 2023 standing at less than half of those received in 2021.
But newly published data shows a significant increase in applicants for the 2024 programme, which rose from 26,899 to 44,362, equating to a 65% spike.
The number of graduates putting the programme’s Digital, Data, Cyber and Technology track as their first choice skyrocketed by 151%, following an increase from 2,154 last year to 5,401 this time out.
Related content
- Cabinet Office evaluates efficacy of graduate scheme
- Government graduate scheme sees hefty drop in applicants
- Digital specialists joining government lack ‘the right jobs to go to’, report finds
This rate of growth was exceeded only by the Government Statistical Scheme, where applicants citing this track as their first choice rose from 262 to 672. This represents a 156% increase.
The latest statistical release also revealed that government had once again delivered on its target of ensuring that at least half of external applications came from candidates with a background in science, technology, engineering or maths. Although the proportion of applicants possessing a STEM qualification did drop year on year, from 63% to 51%.
Applications for the 2025 Fast Stream intake open next week. For the first time, graduates will have the option of applying to a dedicated cybersecurity track, which has been split out of the wide digital segment.
Although applications rose sharply this year, the 2024 numbers are still more than 20,000 short of the peak of 64,697 candidates in 2020.
A Cabinet Office spokesperson said: “As our application window for 2025 opens, our primary focus remains on attracting high-quality candidates who have the potential to become future civil service managers and leaders.’’
Read more about this story on PublicTechnology sister publication Civil Service World
Great article! I really appreciate the clear and detailed insights you’ve provided on this topic. It’s always refreshing to read content that breaks things down so well, making it easy for readers to grasp even complex ideas. I also found the practical tips you’ve shared to be very helpful. Looking forward to more informative posts like this! Keep up the good work!
toobit exchange