The Civil Service Fast Stream received a record 72,691 applications in 2025, an achievement worth celebrating.
Attracting the most talented individuals not only strengthens the government's ability to deliver, reform and improve public services, it also offers participants unrivalled development and career opportunities.
However,
Low pay and structural uncertainty mean too many talented individuals leave early, undermining the programme's purpose.
In 2023, only 26,899 people applied, following a decision to freeze Fast Stream recruitment, which was later reversed.
The Cabinet Office cannot be complacent about future success, given the programme's history.
Author's summary: Record applications to the Fast Stream hide retention issues.