Everything You Need To Know About Grad Schemes
What is a graduate scheme?
“A graduate scheme is a structured programme offered by employers that provides training, mentoring and hands-on work experience for recent graduates. These programmes typically last one to three years and allow you to gain exposure to different parts of the business, while receiving guidance from senior staff. Graduate schemes are beneficial because they support your transition from university to the working world.” – Conor Hughes, HR consultant at SMB Guide
“Graduate programmes are a great way for recent graduates to start their careers. Basically, these structured programmes are designed to help you master the skills needed to kickstart a career. With support from industry experts, you'll gain hands-on experience and figure out the type of role you're suited to.” – Daniel Wolken, HR expert & talent acquisition specialist at DailyRemote
“Larger companies often have sizeable graduate schemes, meaning that new recruits have a network of peers to ease into the world of work.” – Natasha Kearslake, director of HR consultancy Organic P&O Solutions
How do they tend to work?
“Graduate schemes typically take the participant on a structured or tailored journey through an organisation. One example might be a scheme in which a participant rotates through different departments or sectors, experiencing a set time period in each. Graduate schemes are typically accompanied by mentoring, training and education.” – Eloise Skinner, careers coach & psychotherapist
“You will have dedicated mentors for guidance and support, sharing advice and industry insights. The programme can include everything from online learning modules and workshops to supplement work, and keep skills and knowledge up to date. The breadth of training and network access is invaluable. You'll master skills ranging from communication and critical thinking through to project management, and gain mentorship opportunities you just can't find elsewhere. Having this ‘on the job’ experience looks excellent on your CV and really boosts your career prospects.” – Daniel
What Are The Benefits?
“One of the biggest advantages can be the education element – graduate schemes are designed specifically for accelerated, transitional learning, and can provide much more in the way of supported training than (for example) an entry-level position. Graduate schemes also often involve an element of community – a graduate scheme might typically take on anywhere between 10-100 (or more, for large organisations), and a group intake allows for networking, connections and friendships to be formed.” – Eloise
"Overall, it’s beneficial in both helping graduates to make an informed choice about the type of work they do and also in creating a more rounded employee who has experienced and appreciates the different functions of a business." – Susan Binnersley, founder and managing director of h2h
Who are they for?
“First, the notion that graduate schemes are exclusively for top achievers is false. While academic excellence is valued, other factors like skills and potential are also considered. Furthermore, graduate schemes aren't exclusively for recent graduates; some companies extend these programmes to individuals with a few years of work experience or those switching careers.” – Bethany Windsor, programme director at Generation Logistics
“It’s a common misconception that graduate schemes only want first-class honours students. University shows us that you have a willingness to learn and can be dedicated to something, so the benchmark for a graduate scheme at Bellway is a 2:2.” – Laura Bell, group senior organisational development manager at Bellway
“Employers are looking for people skills like communication and the ability to work well on a team – both of which are very important in remote environments. Qualities like initiative-taking, critical thinking on your feet, and eagerness to develop new skills will serve you well as industries continuously evolve. Having the drive and enthusiasm to learn and grow in your career will carry you far.” – Daniel
What Should You Apply for?
“Bank and investment firms recruit heavily from the graduate pool and are a great way to get ahead in management consulting firms. Larger retailers and fast-moving consumer goods companies like Pepsi and Mars take on a regular cohort of graduates, but you need to be prepared to work in all parts of the business. Also, large engineering businesses and cybersecurity firms offer opportunities to kickstart a career, especially for people that want to travel, or become project directors and technical specialists. And, if you want to combine work and pleasure, you could look into a graduate scheme with major brewing companies like Diageo or Heineken. Or even snap up a role working with crocodiles at the Zoological Society of London, which runs zoos and safari parks across the UK.But remember, the smaller the industry, the more competitive the graduate schemes are, and getting into media companies like ITV can be extremely difficult.” – Natasha
“It depends on what you really want to do – if you have a clear passion elsewhere, it might make more sense to pursue that right away instead of taking a scheme for the sake of it. But plenty of graduate schemes provide great starting positions for success across lots of industries, it can give you a taste and a chance to figure out what you want while getting some experience.” – Eloise
How can you secure a place?
“Be yourself and do your research. There is nothing more impressive in an interview than when someone has prepared in detail for the role. It's also important to be yourself; make sure your personality comes through and really demonstrate the value you can bring.” – Olivia Fisher, early careers manager at THG
“Research schemes that align with your career aspirations and values to make sure you are heading in the right direction. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills, experiences and academic achievements, and be prepared for the selection process, which may include aptitude tests, assessment centres, and interviews.” – Nicki Robson, HR consultant at Breedon Consulting
What Should You Expect In The Application Process?
“Most graduate trainee schemes are extremely popular, and attract many more applicants than there are places. As a result, application processes can be long. You’ll start by filling in an online application form with details about your education, work experience and skills. Most applications will ask for a cover letter explaining why you want to apply for the role, and why you think you would be a good fit. Some companies use online exams to screen candidates, with questions that test psychometric, numerical, verbal reasoning, and situational judgement. Candidates whose applications look promising may be invited to an assessment centre. You’ll likely be there with between four and ten other applicants, and you may have to work together to solve a business challenge. These tests will let the company evaluate how you work in a team, and how your leadership skills are. You might be given tests that evaluate your communications skills and how well you work with data. If it’s important to the job, you might have to deliver a presentation to show off your public speaking skills. Most assessment days will include interviews with HR personnel and managers you might be working for. The entire process can take several months from the time you apply, and there can often be a lot of hoops to jump through.” – Natasha
How can you make it a success?
“Embrace a growth mindset, be open to learning, and strive to understand the company culture and expectations. Building relationships with colleagues and mentors is crucial for support and guidance. Seek feedback actively, manage time effectively, and stay curious about learning opportunities. Taking initiative, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and reflecting on experiences to adapt and grow are key strategies for success.” – Bethany
“Networking can play a crucial role in securing opportunities within graduate schemes. Exposure to any business is beneficial – try and identify key contacts that you can leverage as you move throughout your career.” – Mya Medina, UK head of customer and tutor management at Go Student
“Transitioning from university to the corporate world can be an adjustment, but a graduate programme should help ease any concerns. Our advice is to be kind to yourself. It's your first role and no one is expecting you to be an expert on your second day. All you can do is get fully involved and take part in any sessions that will help you in the long run.” – Olivia
Visit our experts at THG.com, GoStudent.org, BreedonConsulting.co.uk, GenerationLogistics.org, EloiseSkinner.com, OrganicPOSolutions.co.uk, H2h.uk.com, DailyRemote.com & SMBGuide.com
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.