Graduate Aspiration Programme (GAP) Mentoring from the Civil Service

Applications now closed. Book an appt with an advisor on careers connect with any questions.

In a nutshell:

• The programme is open to students who come from a lower socio-economic background (scroll for detail), studying in their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of an undergraduate degree or on a masters course, studying any subject.
• There is a Mentee information session on Teams which will be recorded so students can access it after the session has taken place. (see button below)
• Students need to submit their applications by midnight on 27 October. Scroll for more details.

What is it?

GAP is an amazing one-to-one mentoring opportunity which matches university students, from low socio-economic backgrounds, with a mentor from the Civil Service who has expertise in a particular professional area. The programme aims to build confidence, and aspiration and support future career choices, as well as enhance communication skills and build new networks.

How can it help?

“The GAP mentoring programme helped me see that I could belong in the Civil Service and that it wasn’t out of reach. My mentor was super friendly, our calls felt like productive chats with a friend, and there was no pressure to say or do the right thing. We even discussed other career and life options alternative to the civil service to discuss what option worked best for me as an individual. This year I will be applying to the Civil Service Fast Stream with confidence and knowing what to expect. I wouldn’t have known about the Fast Stream without the GAP mentoring Programme.”

(Education Studies Student)

How does it work?

Mentees are encouraged to talk about their career aspirations and any opportunities or barriers they feel may prevent them from achieving their goals. The role of the mentor is to offer guidance and advice, as well as help to identify solutions to support mentees to achieve their potential.

Who can apply?

Students must come from lower socio-economic backgrounds (LSEB), an example may be

• received/were eligible for free school meals
• receive a higher bursary
• parents/carers are/were in routine/manual labour job roles or unemployed

When can you apply?

Students need to submit their applications by 24 October.