Care Leaver Internship Scheme 2026
Applications Open: 8 May to 31 May 2026 (via Civil Service Jobs)
Welcome to the Care Leaver Internship Scheme 2026.
The Care Leaver Internship is an 18-month paid role within a government department at Administrative Officer (AO) or Executive Officer (EO) level. These are entry-level roles within the Civil Service.
This internship is designed for care leavers to gain experience, build skills and move towards sustained employment.
Who can apply?
You must meet all of the following:
- Be a care leaver, eligible for leaving care support, with at least 13 weeks in care, including some time after your 16th birthday
- Be aged 18 to 30 on 31 May 2026
- Meet the Civil Service nationality rules:
PDF: Civil Service Nationality Rules – Guidance on Checking Elibilty
About the scheme
This internship is part of the Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) life chances scheme: gfie.blog.gov.uk/about/
Since 2014, over 1,300 care leavers have joined the Civil Service through this programme.
Interns are employed in real roles and paid at the same rate as other AO/EO staff.
CL External Flyer 2026What you can expect
- Experience of working in a government department
- Development of workplace skills and confidence
- A structured role supporting independence and progression
- The opportunity to contribute to public services
- A chance to build networks and relationships
Application process
- Apply: 8 May to 31 May 2026 – Care Leaver Internship Scheme 2026 – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK
- Interviews: 23 June to 3 July 2026
- Outcome: Successful candidates informed by the end of July 2026
For support workers
Support workers can help young people to check eligibility, apply through Civil Service Jobs, and prepare for interview.
