TOP GRADUATE SCHEMES A graduate scheme is a training programme that allows graduates to gain practical experience with a company or organisation and transition from university into the workplace. They are designed to provide support starting your career and develop the essential skills needed to thrive at work. Graduate schemes are paid positions and usually last between one and three years, however the length of the scheme varies depending on the industry or placement. They are available in nearly every industry and involve all kinds of roles. Joining a graduate scheme is a great way to prove your knowledge and skills and experience what it’s like being in a workplace. Since 1999, The Times has been publishing a book each year on the Top 100 Graduate Employers according to students. These are the workplaces with the best salaries, best job satisfaction and most sought-after positions. The book itself is available for free from most university careers departments, or £19.99 to buy. However, we’ve got everything you need here, with The Times’ Top 10 Graduate Schemes.
1
Salary: Openings:
Competitive 1,350
The Number 1 Graduate Employer in The Times’ Top 100 list for the last 15 years. PwC offer graduate schemes in multiple areas of Accounting and Professional Services. According to PwC, their graduate schemes offer graduates the opportunity to “grow as an individual, build lasting relationships and make an impact in a place where people, quality and value mean everything”.
3
Salary: Openings:
£44,000+ 100
This graduate scheme teaches you the ins and outs of store life before giving you responsibility and the opportunity to run operations. According to Aldi, they “thrive on giving graduates unparalleled exposure, training and support”.
2 Salary: Openings:
£25,000-28,000 1,500
The civil service fast stream offers talented graduates an accelerated route to leadership in the Civil Service. They offer roles in finance, health, diplomacy and many more.
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4 Salary: Openings:
Competitive 1,750
Teach First are a charity, who aim to address educational inequality. During their graduate schemes, “you’ll build the skills and experience to become a leader in all sectors of society”.
