Understanding the traits that may indicate a future policy maker in your child can help guide their career path effectively. This article explores the characteristic traits of children who might become policy makers, the educational and career pathways in the UK, and the potential impact of policy makers on society.

Characteristic Traits of Future Policy Makers 

Children who may grow up to become policy makers often exhibit certain traits from a young age. Here are some key characteristics to look out for: 

- Curiosity and Inquisitiveness: A strong desire to understand how things work and ask questions about the world around them. 

- Leadership Skills: Natural ability to lead and influence peers, often taking charge in group activities. 

- Empathy and Social Awareness: Sensitivity to social issues and a desire to help others, often showing concern for fairness and justice. 

- Analytical Thinking: Ability to think critically and solve complex problems, often excelling in subjects like mathematics and science. 

- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, often excelling in debates and persuasive writing.  

Educational Pathways for Policy Makers in the UK 

To pursue a career in policy making in the UK, certain educational pathways can be particularly beneficial: 

1. A-Level Choices: Subjects like Politics, Economics, History, and Sociology can provide a strong foundation. 

2. Undergraduate Degrees: Degrees in Politics, International Relations, Economics, Law, and Public Administration are highly relevant. 

3. Postgraduate Degrees: Further specialisation through a Master’s in Public Policy, International Relations, or a related field can enhance career prospects. 

Career Pathway and Salary Range 

Starting a career in policy making typically involves entry-level roles such as policy assistants or analysts, with starting salaries ranging from £20,000 to £30,000. With experience, policy makers can advance to senior roles such as policy advisors or directors, with potential earnings exceeding £70,000. Top-tier positions in government or international organisations can offer salaries upwards of £100,000. 

Top Companies Recruiting Policy Makers  

Several top companies and organisations in the UK actively recruit policy makers, offering excellent graduate roles and career progression opportunities:  

- HM Treasury: Offers a Graduate Development Programme that nurtures policy professionals across various areas of government policy. 

- Ministry of Justice: Recruits policy advisors and communications officers to work on critical justice policies. 

- Department for Transport (DfT): Employs policy advisors to develop and implement transport policies. 

- PwC UK: Engages with policy makers to inform good policy making and supports public policy debates. 

- Netflix: Recruits policy and legal advisors to navigate complex regulatory environments. 

- Imperial College London: Offers roles such as policy and engagement officers to influence educational policies.  

Impact of Policy Makers 

Policy makers have a profound impact on society, shaping laws, regulations, and public policies that affect daily life. Their decisions can lead to positive changes, such as improved healthcare, education, and economic growth. However, policy decisions can also have negative impacts if not well-considered, leading to issues like economic disparity or social unrest. 

Recent news highlights the importance of effective policy making. For example, the UK's response to the cost of living crisis has been criticised for short-term thinking and lack of accountability, emphasising the need for comprehensive and intersectional approaches to policy making. On the positive side, initiatives to improve data usage in policy making have shown promise in addressing complex social issues.  

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Disclaimer: This article was informed by research from various sources including HM Treasury Careers, PwC UK, GOV.UK, and Michael Page. We thank these institutions for their valuable insights and contributions.