HR Graduate Programme 2026

HR Graduate Programme 2026

Our two-year Evolve programme offers you an exciting opportunity to join our HR career pathway. We’re looking for amazing graduates and aspiring future HR leaders to join us and shape the future of AWE …Is that person you?

Entry Requirements

We want ambitious, people-focused graduates with:

• A degree in any discipline; degrees in HR, Business, Communications, Psychology or Data Analysis are a plus
• Curiosity for data, talent, or communications—depending on your chosen route
• Excellent communication and analytical skills
• A passion for creating exceptional workplaces and driving positive change
• Before starting with the business, you will need to be able to provide evidence that you have attained a minimum of a 2:2 in your degree by September 2026.
• You must be able to Join AWE in September 2026. We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, we will close.

What to Expect on the Programme

At AWE, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Join our Human Resources Graduate Development Programme and become part of a community that’s shaping the future of a truly unique industry. From day one, you’ll be supported via your chosen development path that aligns with your strengths and ambitions—whether it's employee experience, talent development, or strategic HR. Over two years, you’ll grow into a specialist role, making a real impact while building a career you’re proud of.

Development Routes:

We have 3 options available on our HR Graduate Programme which you can choose from. Please only pick one route as we’re not able to accept multiple applications.

Data Analyst (Organisational Intelligence Insights)

Leverage people data and analytics to inform HR strategy and drive meaningful improvements in organisation effectiveness workforce planning, engagement and performance.

HR Specialist

Gain hands-on experience across the full spectrum of HR disciplines—from talent acquisition and learning & development to employee relations and organisational design.

Corporate Communications & Engagement

Shape and deliver communications that connect colleagues and stakeholders, strengthen our brand, and build positive employee engagement across the business.

Your Two-Year Development Journey

A two-year, structured development programme kicking off in Autumn 2026. Immediate placement in your chosen route, with opportunities to learn from industry experts.

Tailored training—both in-house and external courses—to build your technical and professional skills.

One-to-one mentoring and coaching from senior leaders.

Real responsibility: lead projects, present insights, and influence our people and culture.

Benefits:

• £31,000 starting salary
• Holiday entitlement of 270 hours of leave annually including bank holidays
• Excellent work/life balance and a vibrant and welcoming grad social scene
• 9-day working fortnight - so every other Friday off
• A salary-sacrifice benefit scheme
• A welcome payment
• An option of an interest free loan of £1,000 as well as regular Graduate pay reviews
• A structured and supported career progression
• Access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending across retail, hospitality and leisure
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to our Occupational Health Services

Application Process:

Our process is designed to be simple, fair and transparent:

1. Online Application – Opens 15th September. Explore the option and apply for one pathway that best suits your interests and goals.
2. Online Tests – If shortlisted, you’ll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive assessments. Practice materials will be available to ensure you know what to expect.
3. Virtual Assessment Centre – Successful candidates will be invited to virtual AC’s running Nov–Dec 2025, with pre-assessment webinars to guide you.

You must be a British National, able to start in September 2026, and eligible for security clearance. Applications close on Friday 24th October, but will close earlier if we receive enough applications, so apply early.

Support & Inclusion:

We welcome diverse applicants and strive to create a workplace where differences are recognised and celebrated. We encourage requests for reasonable adjustments if required, to ensure you feel able to perform your best. Any information you share will be used only to support you through the process in line with GDPR.

Why AWE?:

• Build leadership skills, self-awareness, and teamwork.
• Join a vibrant early careers community with events, ERGs and networking opportunities.
• Benefit from continual support: a line manager, pathway lead, and ‘buddy’ to guide your journey.

Who We’re Looking For:

Curious, problem-solvers with integrity, resilience, and a collaborative mindset. You’ll thrive if you’re eager to grow and ready to apply your skills to real-world challenges.

Contact Us:

For questions, email the Early Careers Team: EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button. Please note that applications may close before the application deadline, so apply early to avoid disappointment.