Care Leaver Internship Scheme 2026

Job summary

Apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 31st May 2026

Please see the attached candidate pack for a definitive list of locations where we have vacancies available.

Your unique perspective makes all the difference to the way we work. 

Our Care Leavers 18-month paid internship is one way the Civil Service is showing our commitment to Care Leavers. In 2025 over 100 care leavers were offered an internship across government. 

Job description

The award-winning Care Leaver Internship Scheme is designed to serve as a launchpad for young people leaving care, helping them build essential skills and gain valuable experience at the beginning of their careers.

As an intern, you will work at the heart of government, contributing to a wide range of policies and projects that shape the nation. This 18-month paid internship offers a unique opportunity to develop professionally, gain insight into the workings of government, and build a strong foundation for future employment.

We are looking for individuals with curiosity, motivation, and a desire to learn. While the internship lasts 18 months, we hope many participants will be inspired to pursue a long-term career within the Civil Service.

Tasks will vary depending on where you work and the grade to which you are assigned. 

Administrative Officer 

As an administrative officer generally you will be working in an administrative role within a team, with no Line Management responsibilities. You will usually work within a supportive team structure, following policy and procedures under the direction of team leaders. 

Executive Officer 

As an Executive Officer generally you will be involved in problem solving, business planning and policy making, at the very highest levels of government. 

You’ll usually work within a supportive team structure, under the direction of relevant team leaders. You may also hold individual responsibility for pieces of work within a programme or project using your own initiative and following departments policy and procedures. 

Person specification

A major part of the role will be computer-based tasks and will use your communication and organisational skills in your everyday work. 

In the job you may be asked: 

• To take your own initiative with minimal supervision following departmental policy and procedures, knowing when to seek help. 
• To identify priorities, resolving issues and manage your time effectively. 
• To support the team to secure the most effective outcome. 
• To manage diaries, arrange meetings and book meeting rooms. 
• To effectively and accurately use multiple Microsoft applications and their functions. 
• To provide effective customer service. 

Can I apply? 

Applicants must be aged 18-30 at the time of applying. Only those who are already 18 will be considered. 

This scheme is open to applicants who were eligible for a leaving care support package when leaving care.

Young People on Special Guardianship Orders who qualify for advice and assistance as per the Children Act are also eligible to apply. 

Young people from Kinship Care, formal or otherwise, are not eligible for this scheme. 

No qualifications are required for this internship, however you will need to provide examples that clearly demonstrate the criteria listed. 

You may be offered the option of an apprenticeship as part of your role and development depending on which department you are allocated to if successful. 

How do I apply? 

Apply online by clicking "Apply now" at the bottom of this page. 

You will complete an online application form, which will ask you to provide a personal statement (500 words).  

We will use this application to assess your skills for a job and invite successful applicants for an interview. Feedback will be given on your application. 

Will there be an Interview? 

If your written application is successful, you will be invited to a virtual interview where you will be asked questions by two or three people. The purpose of the interview is to assess your experience, strengths and suitability for the role and it will last about 45 minutes. Feedback will be given on your interview. 

When will my internship start? 

Please refer to the recruitment timeline in the attached candidate pack.

If we are unable to allocate successful candidates to a department immediately, we will hold your details on a reserve list for 12 months and will do our utmost to find a suitable role for you. All appointments will be made in strict merit order. 

Can I request to work for a specific department? 

Candidates will be allocated to a role based on their location and the grade to which they have been deemed appointable.  

It is not possible to request a placement directly with any of the participating departments. 

Further information and application: Care Leaver Internship Scheme 2026 - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK