Cabinet Office
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Bigger challenges, faster progress, applications are now open for the civil service summer diversity internship programme 2008
The Civil Service Fast Stream Team is pleased to announce that the Summer Diversity Internship Programme is once again open for applications.
The programme is aimed at high calibre individuals interested in applying to the Fast Stream, a competitive graduate development programme that identifies people with the potential to progress to the Senior Civil Service. In particular, the Summer Diversity Internship Programme seeks to help groups that are currently underrepresented in the Fast Stream gain a better understanding of career opportunities within the Civil Service.
The programme is open to UK nationals either from an ethnic minority background or with a registered disability, with a minimum 2.2 expected or awarded degree.
Sir Gus O'Donnell, Head of the Civil Service, commended the programme and said: "In order to meet the new and evolving challenges which society faces, it is essential that we have a workforce that is diverse in its make up and capable of bringing a fresh perspective to how we deliver. The Summer Diversity Internship Programme is an excellent opportunity to gain a real insight into the challenging and exciting work on offer from the Civil Service, and I would encourage you to get involved."
Successful applicants will undertake a paid 6-8 weeks internship in the summer of 2008, based in one of the government's 60 central departments. During the internship participants will have the opportunity to meet current Fast Streamers and Senior Civil Servants.
The Diversity Programme is not simply a work experience programme but rather a chance to get involved in real projects with real responsibility, and to enhance skills and competencies needed for the Fast Stream. Anisha Punchihewa for example undertook her placement at the Police Leadership & Powers Unit in the Home Office. She managed her own research project, travelling round the country to interview police officers and meeting experts in the field. Now a Fast Streamer, Anisha has just completed a secondment in the Cabinet Office, advising the Prime Minister and his colleagues on home affairs issues. Anisha said: "Any pre-conceptions I had about the Civil Service were completely dispelled by my time on the diversity programme. It was a hugely enjoyable experience - and one which ultimately convinced me to apply for the Fast Stream."
Fast Stream Support Manager Liz Smith has managed the programme at the Home Office for the last 5 years, during which time 7 placement students have joined the Home Office permanently, 6 of whom are on the Fast Stream. "Our diversity placements have been a consistent success, providing participants with the challenge of real work opportunities within a friendly and supportive environment. I would encourage anyone to who wants to learn more about Civil Service careers to apply."
Last year 156 successful applicants spent the summer in 22 different government departments such as the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Placements are available not just in central London but also across the country, for instance at the Scottish Executive and the Welsh Assembly.
Applications for this year's scheme are now open and close on 6 January 2008. To apply or find out more visit http://diversity.faststream.gov.uk or call the Fast Stream Team on 01276 400 333.
Cabinet Office Press Office 22 Whitehall LONDON SW1A 2WH
