Graduate and apprenticeship process

ACCESSIBILITY TOOLS Graduate and apprenticeship process How it all works Our application process is a chance for you to shine. We’ve designed it to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way, so you can truly show your potential. You’ll start with a simple online application, followed by a blend of virtual and in-person stages. The process ends with our final assessment day, full of engaging activities that help us get to know you, and give you the chance to learn more about life at XPS. It’s a mix of assessed and non-assessed tasks, all designed to highlight your strengths, showcase your ideas, and help you feel at home. We appreciate starting your career can be a daunting time, but if you need any adjustments or additional support just let us know! We want you to feel welcome and positive about this process at XPS. Our vacancies The application process Stage 1: Your Application This is your chance to tell us about your motivation in applying for the role, and your skills, experience and academic background related to the role. This should take about one hour to complete, and you will need to upload a current CV. You can find information on what we are looking for in each of our roles in the job advert.   Stage 2: Initial Screening  After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by a member of our Recruitment team against the requirements of the role. If successful at this first stage, you will be contacted by the Recruitment team to discuss the role, and to ensure you have all the information you need to know if it is right for you.   Stage 3: Shortlisting If you are successful at Stage 2, your application will be passed to the hiring manager for a further technical review. If you are successful, you will be invited to the next stage. If you are unsuccessful, you will be offered the option to request feedback and apply for other roles.   Stage 4: Assessment Day If you are successful at Stage 3, you will be invited to attend the final stage of the recruitment process, an in-person, full day event where, you will be able to meet XPS colleagues from within the business area you have applied to. The assessment centres vary from role to role, but will include different activities, for example:    A competency-based interview A presentation A group exercise A technical test To succeed at this stage, we will be looking for you to demonstrate XPS values, as well as the competencies required for the role. If successful, you will receive a job offer within two working days. If you are unsuccessful, you will be offered the option to request feedback. We want you to have an enjoyable experience with us, reducing any barriers or worries as much as possible. Full instructions about what to expect and how to prepare for your assessment day, including travel expenses and what to wear, will be provided ahead of the day, and our team will be available to answer any questions you might have. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know what opportunities are open for applications? Our graduate intake takes place annually, typically in the Autumn, while our apprenticeship intake happens up to three times a year. In some cases, we may run additional assessment sessions if required. Which offices offer graduate schemes? Where can I find your academic requirements / what are the entry qualifications for your apprentice/graduate roles? What subjects should I study at A-Level / Scottish Standards or equivalents? Can I apply for the graduate scheme if I graduated several years ago? What do you look for other than academic background? What happens after I’ve submitted my application form? What salary do you offer? What are the benefits? I was unsuccessful in my application – how long do I have to wait before reapplying? Will I be working in the office, remotely or hybrid? How will XPS support my wellbeing? What opportunities are there to engage with environmental or social causes whilst at XPS? What does the induction look like? I have extenuating circumstances impacting my academic attainment. How do I disclose this? I require adjustments / assistance with the recruitment process, how do I notify you of this? Can I apply for an Apprenticeship role if I need a work permit? Can I apply for a graduate role if I need a work permit? Is there an age limit for applicants? My question has not been answered within the FAQs, how can I get in touch? An application process for everyone At XPS, we’re a Disability Confident Leader and  committed to making our recruitment process inclusive, supportive and accessible to everyone.  If there’s anything we can do to make your experience more comfortable, please let us know.   Get in touch Related links: Early Careers Programmes Current vacancies Life at XPS Register for events Join our mailing list Register for events We enjoy hosting a wide range of events for pension scheme trustees, corporate sponsors, independent trustees, and pensions professionals. Full list of upcoming events Join our mailing list Keep up to date with our latest news and views including pension briefings, XPS insights, reports and event invitations. Sign up