Government Statistical Service

Description:

The Government Statistical Service (GSS) invites applications for its 12-month paid Sandwich Year Placement Programme, offering students the chance to gain hands-on analytical experience at the heart of the UK government.

This placement provides a rare opportunity to work across multiple departments and agencies, contributing directly to data-driven decision-making and policy development that impacts millions of citizens. Students will join a network of professional statisticians and analysts, supporting critical areas such as transport, environment, immigration, crime, national infrastructure, and more.

As part of the UK Civil Service, placement students will apply their academic skills to real-world government challenges, learning from industry experts while developing analytical, communication, and problem-solving capabilities essential for a future career in data and public service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support government departments in collecting, manipulating, and analysing data to inform public policy and decision-making.

• Present research findings and analytical insights clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Use statistical tools and software (e.g., Excel, R, Python, SPSS, or similar) to prepare, visualise, and interpret data.

• Collaborate with teams across departments to deliver accurate and timely statistical outputs.

• Contribute to the design and improvement of data collection methods and systems.

• Provide support on projects impacting areas such as transport, environmental sustainability, immigration, policing, and social policy.

• Work to tight deadlines, maintaining attention to detail and accuracy in all analyses.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Currently studying for a highly numerate degree such as Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, Economics, Psychology, Geography, Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics.

• Expected to achieve a 2:2 or above.

• Strong theoretical or practical understanding of data analysis and basic statistics.

• IT literate, with proficiency in Excel and familiarity with statistical or data software tools.

• Effective communicator with the ability to present complex information clearly.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in teams and deliver results under pressure.

• Highly motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to apply academic learning to practical government challenges.

Eligibility:

• Open to undergraduate students or those studying for a combined master’s degree who will graduate in 2027 or later.

• Students graduating in 2026 are not eligible.

Application Requirements:

Applicants must include in their qualifications section:

• The degree currently being studied

• Current year of study

• Expected graduation year

• Predicted grade

Personal Statement (up to 750 words):
Applicants should address each part of the Person Specification using the STAR method:

• Situation: The context or challenge faced

• Task: The objective or responsibility

• Action: The steps taken to resolve or achieve it

• Result: The outcome and what was learned

Contract & Working Pattern:

• Duration: 12 months (some placements may vary slightly)

• Work Type: Full-time or part-time (flexible working patterns available)

• Work Mode: Hybrid (combination of in-office and remote work)

• Contract Type: Temporary, Fixed-term placement