The best graduate schemes in the UK

Graduate schemes are often the best pathway into a career for university students who have completed their degree. Along with a decent salary and other benefits, graduate schemes allow you to get your foot in the door to some of the biggest companies out there. Whether you’re looking for a job in London, or elsewhere in the country, there will definitely be something you’re interested in. To save the hours of researching, we’ve done the work for you! Here are some of the best graduate schemes on offer in the UK right now.

Aldi – Graduate Area Manager Programme

Salary: Starting from £50,000 Aldi’s graduate scheme is one of the most popular among graduates, and it’s not hard to understand why. You will find it incredibly difficult to find another programme with a starting salary of £50,000! This scheme is incredibly competitive, but you’ll be able to reap the rewards if you’re successful. Along with the substantial salary, which rises to £90,615 in year 8, you’ll also be given a fully expensed company car to go about your daily business in. To be able to apply for the Aldi Graduate Area Manager Programme, you will need at least a 2:1 in your chosen degree, along with a minimum of 96 UCAS points and a driving licence.

Explore Learning – Assistant Director Programme

Salary: £23,000-£25,500 plus benefits Explore Learning has private centres across the country, providing children with quality maths and English tuition. The company are always on the lookout for graduates to take on the role of Assistant Director in multiple locations from London to Scotland, meaning that you can choose whether you want to relocate for work or not. During your time as Assistant Director, you will play a part in four key areas of the business: Sales & Marketing, Management & Business, Teaching and Customer Service. To apply for this position, you must have a strong degree classification, a minimum of grade B in maths and English GCSE and preferably some prior experience of working with children.

KPMG – Graduate Audit Programme

Salary: Competitive plus benefits KPMG works with a large number of businesses to offer professional assistance with Auditing, Tax & Legal, Consulting, Deal Advisory and Technology Services. The company currently has a number of positions available for its Graduate Audit Programme; The places on the scheme are spread out across the country in the locations of Aberdeen, Cambridge, Cardiff, the South East, the South West and Yorkshire. If you are successful in the role, you will undertake structured training, while at the same time having responsibility for a portfolio of businesses to audit. If you are interested in applying to the KPMG Graduate Audit Programme, you will need to achieve at least a 2:1 in your degree. However, the company have stated that they will look at more than your academics.

Capgemini UK Plc – Various programmes

Salary: Competitive Capgemini is a well-known UK employer, offering consulting, digital transformation, technology and engineering services. Capgemini is currently advertising for three graduate positions: a Graduate Software Test Consultant, a Graduate Technical Specialist and a Graduate Technology Specialist. Similar to previous schemes on this list, you can choose where you want to be based with the Capgemini graduate programme, as there are positions advertised in both the South and the West Midlands.

Civil Service – Fast Stream Programme

Salary: Competitive – starting from £31,186 If you’re interested in a career working for the Government, the Civil Service Fast Stream Programme may be for you. There are 15 different schemes on offer in the programme, ranging in duration from two years up to four years. Roles available are varied, so there will undoubtedly be the perfect position for you. Click here to see all 15 schemes in detail. You normally need a 2.2 degree to apply.

BBC – Trainee and Graduate Schemes

Salary: £22,442-32,500 depending on scheme The BBC’s graduate trainee schemes are perfect for any aspiring creatives out there. The programmes are most suited for someone who is passionate about news, who wouldn’t mind working during unsociable hours (for example, late at night or on weekends.)  They include everything from research to production to software, so can cover a wide range of skills. Plus everyone knows the BBC, so it’s a solid place to start your career. In addition, you’ll also get a mentor and team manager, as well as other perks like discounted health care, gym and dental care. It’s not always easy to finish university and land your dream role, but these are some of the best graduate schemes in the UK to help you on your way. We’ve also got inspiration for side hustles if you need a little bit more cash in your pocket too.