Think we're not for you? Think again.
Do you want to combine your studies with on-the-job learning? And would you like to work somewhere exciting, where your insights are valued? Then the Bank of England could have a range of programmes to interest you. From internships and apprenticeships to graduate and PhD opportunities – whatever suits you, you’ll discover a supportive, diverse and inclusive workplace where you’ll make genuine contributions. Read on to discover more about us and meet some of our people.
What do we do?
We’re the UK’s central bank. Unlike other banks, we don’t hold people’s deposits or lend them money. Instead, we’re responsible for issuing money, keeping its value steady by stopping prices in the shops from rising too quickly, and keeping it safe by overseeing the entire financial system.
We also do a lot of educational work, we have a museum, and we rely on all the core functions that you’d expect in any big company. Everything from HR and Legal, to IT and Communications helps to keep us running smoothly.
Sounds important and interesting? That’s because it is. And it’s only possible with people like you. So, if you think you can’t work here, think again.
Who are we looking for?
You! We’re always looking for people from different backgrounds with different interests to join us. And because our work involves more than just finance, we’re after talented individuals from a whole range of disciplines. There’s so much more to us – just like there’s so much more to you.
Our programmes
Our work goes far beyond finance. Find out more about our wide range of opportunities:
Our culture
People usually think that our culture is very serious, formal and ‘traditional’. But it’s actually very fun, relaxed and modern. It’s also a hugely respectful, empowering and down-to-earth place to work. And because we’re all working towards the same goal, we’re all in it together.
We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels comfortable, confident and valued. We have a number of staff-run networks, to help you find people with common experiences, and to help everyone feel they can bring their whole self to work. We wprk hard to support wellbeing, winning The City Mental Health Alliance’s highest accreditation in their “Thriving at work” assessment in 2020 and 2021.
Our passion for diversity and inclusion means we’ve been recognised as a Disability Confident Employer. We are a Stonewall Diversity Champion, National Graduate Recruitment award winners in 2021 and A Job Crowd Top Company for Apprentices to work in for 2022
Ammara
Before joining the Bank of England I was worried about the level of work I would receive on a degree apprenticeship, as I come from a background that doubted the value of apprenticeships.
But a year in, I stand confident in my decision to join the scheme. I am engaged in impactful high-level projects that fuel my passions. The degree apprenticeship has illuminated my path towards a future I’m excited to embrace.
Olawale
I joined the Bank of England through the Graduate Development Programme in 2021. It has been the best I have felt since I came to the UK to go to university about six years ago.
My background is in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. I have transitioned to the role of Data Engineer with the incredible help, support and backing from my colleagues and team mates.
As an individual from a minority ethnicity, I find the commitment to diversity here is impressive. I eagerly anticipate contributing to its growth and success in the years ahead.
Charlotte
I thought I had a pretty good idea of what a central bank did, but when I joined, I was amazed by the variety of jobs on offer. I was also surprised at how much responsibility I was given from day one. From quite early on, I started leading some diversity initiatives in my division. This organisation is great at making sure you have the right support in place to develop your skills – and passions. It makes it such a rewarding place to work.
Upcoming events
Keep an eye on this page to see what we've got coming up.
| Programme | Application open / closing dates |
|---|---|
| PhD Research Programme | 29th Sept - 13th Nov |
| Industrial Placement Programme | 29th Sept - 29th Oct |
| Graduate Development Programme | 29th Sept - 13th Nov |
| Actuarial Development Programme | 29th Sept - 13th Nov |
| Trainee Solicitor Development Programme | 29th Sept - 13th Nov |
| PhD Internships | 13th Nov - 5th Feb |
| Internships (incl. scholarship if running) | 13th Nov - 8th Jan |
| Black Future Leaders Sponsorship Programme | 13th Nov - 8th Jan |
| Level 4 Apprenticeship Development Programme | 13th Nov - 15th Jan |
| Degree Apprenticeship Development Programme | 13th Nov - 15th Jan |
How to apply
Our application processes have several stages. Before you begin, it would be great if you could complete our short quiz. This will help you to decide if our programmes are right for you.
If you decide to apply, the exact process you follow will depend on the Programme you are applying to.
For Graduate and Apprenticeship roles you’ll complete an application form and give details of your education and work experience. This will help us to determine whether you’re eligible for the programme you’ve applied for. If successful, you’ll then be asked to complete a few tests and a video interview.
You may then be invited to the second stage of the interview process, which involves a virtual assessment. We’ll get to know more about you and how you work. Don’t forget you can ask us questions, too. This is the final stage, and a great opportunity for you to show us what you can do.
Please note that you can only make one application, for one programme. If you apply more than once, you’ll risk your application being withdrawn.
For PhD Programme and PhD Internships roles the application process is slightly different. You will still complete an application form which contains some key questions on why you would like to work at the Bank, but you will also be asked to upload your CV and a current research paper.
If shortlisted by one of our hiring areas you will be invited to an interview where we will explore your field of research in a little more detail. This is the final stage for PhD Intern applications.
For the PhD Programme there is also a second stage virtual Selection Centre where you will present your research to a policy audience, have a further technical interview and a have a chance to meet a variety of staff including the Head of the hiring Division and members of our Research Hub. This centre is as much a chance for you to find out about us and our research environment as it is for us to find out about you.
If you’re a non-British/Irish applicant, certain limitations apply regarding student visas and certificates of sponsorship.
Find out more about the rules.
If you have any further queries regarding the application process, please contact the Bank of England Team at Penna.
Why work for us?
We take our responsibilities seriously – both as the UK’s central bank, and as a trusted employer. We’re a public body, so our work affects everyone. Your time with us will be challenging, but rewarding.
We’re proud to have a culture that champions collaboration, inclusivity, empowerment and openness. Our people seek to get the best out of themselves, and each other. We’re friendly and approachable, and always happy to share our expertise. We’ll encourage you to develop your skills and try new things, and we’ll support you.
Flexible working
We’re one of the top 20 highest-rated employers in the UK for work-life balance. The wellbeing of our colleagues is extremely important to us, which is why we will support you with your social, physical, mental wellbeing. Plus, where possible, we’ll also offer flexible working and leave options.
Diversity and inclusion
We want to be an inclusive employer. We want to encourage new perspectives and the sharing of unique insights. And most importantly, we want you to feel that you can be yourself.
We have a number of staff-run diversity and inclusion networks, aimed at removing barriers and allowing colleagues to feel connected, supported and influential. These range from our LGBTQ+, disability, and mental health networks, through to religious and ethnic minority groups.
FAQs
There are several stages. You’ll complete an online application form (assessing eligibility, qualifications and work experience), an online test, a video interview, and a final virtual assessment.
Find details of the qualifications required for all our programmes.
Please see above table for application opening and closing dates by scheme. Should the scheme that you’re interested in applying for, not yet be open, please visit the relevant scheme page on this site to register your interest
It depends on the programme you have applied for. Some take longer than others, but we do ensure you are updated on your progress at the end of each stage.
Yes! The process is the same for you, you’d just need the correct documents and visa to allow you to work in the UK.
