Houses of Parliament Graduate Development Programme
Applications for 2026 are now closed. Applications for 2027 will open in autumn 2026.
The Houses of Parliament Graduate Development Programme allows you to play a part in the political events that will shape the future of our nation.
You'll work with politicians from across the political spectrum on a day-to-day basis, helping to scrutinise government policy and support the UK's parliamentary processes.
What is the Houses of Parliament Graduate Development Programme?
On the Houses of Parliament Graduate Development Programme, you’ll be a clerk in the House of Commons You’ll be employed directly by the House of Commons, rather than the Civil Service. Please note that the House of Lords is not recruiting through the Fast Stream this year.
You’ll work with politicians from all parties to scrutinise government policy and support the UK’s democratic process. You’ll be working closely with MPs from day one and will learn the intricacies of how Parliament works.
Through a variety of roles you might manage inquiries and evidence sessions for a select committee, or be involved in directly supporting the work of the Commons Chamber and assisting in the passage of legislation.
This programme will appeal to those with an interest in politics, public policy, and the constitution. The scheme will give you the experience and skills you need to develop into a future leader of the organisation.
Training
Most of the learning will be on the job, and you'll be in real roles with responsibility from the start.
You will also receive extensive training, based on your own development needs, including:
- an induction when you first arrive
- regular training sessions and seminars
- specialised programme of learning to help you gain an understanding of Parliament and parliamentary procedure
- training and development opportunities, including visits to organisations relevant to Parliament
- support from your line manager, the Graduate Development Programme lead, a peer buddy, and mentoring
Who are we looking for?
We welcome applications from candidates who have, or expect to achieve, a 2:2 degree or higher in any degree subject.
We’re looking for individuals who have:
- excellent written and oral communication skills
- the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships
- the potential to provide politically impartial advice
- skills in analysis and rapidly acquiring knowledge in unfamiliar areas
- influencing and persuasion skills
Why work for us?
We are committed to increasing diversity and to maintaining an inclusive workplace culture. We strongly welcome and encourage applications from underrepresented groups and diverse backgrounds.
We continue to develop working practices which will allow every member of staff to contribute their best, regardless of race, sex, marital status, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic.
If you have any questions about the Houses of Parliament Fast Stream, please email faststream@parliament.uk.
Programme details
Duration: 2-4 years
Salary: 32k (57k plus after promotion)
Location: London
Application requirements: An honours degree (2:2 or above), eligibility to work in the UK and residency in the UK for at least three of the last five years.
How to apply
Applications for the Houses of Parliament Graduate Development Programme can be made through the Civil Service Fast Stream website. Application open every October for four weeks.
Further information is available on the Fast Stream website.
