By Zoe Norman, NGDP Graduate Commissioning Officer (BA Classical Studies 2021)
Get in touch with Zoe on LinkedIn
I’m Zoe, a recent humanities graduate currently working within drug and alcohol and complex needs commissioning at Cornwall Council. Commissioning includes developing policy, strategy, and designing local services to best support vulnerable people. I am going to talk you through what I have learnt so far on the National Graduate Development Program (NGDP), top tips for applying, and why you might want to work in local government.
What is the NGDP?
The NGDP is the National Graduate Development Program run by the Local Government Association. It is a fast-paced two-year role influencing policy at senior level whilst also working with communities. Roles are varied and you could work in climate change through to public health or corporate strategy. You normally do four different placements and study a level 7 certificate in leadership and management over the two years with roles available nationwide. Salaries start nationwide at £30,296.
What’s the application process like?
Applications are open until the start of January and you can find out more and apply here: The National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP)
The first stage is a situational judgement test: don’t overthink the answers but go with your gut. If you pass this, then you have a video interview with guidance in advance but remember to think about how you can support your community and what transferable skills you can bring from your degree. I really benefited from volunteering during my time at RHUL and can’t recommend the Volunteering team enough.
If you are successful, you then attend a half day assessment centre which is focused on individual and group exercises before interviewing with one or two councils in your region of your preference. Remember to research what councils do (I promise it’s not just bins and pot holes!), participate as much as possible, ask questions, think of examples of where you have shown leadership, and reach out to the Careers Service for support and guidance. If successful, you then receive a conditional job offer as long as you achieve a 2:2 and have the right to work in the UK. There is also a second round of interviews if needed. The most important thing is to demonstrate your ambition and passion to initiate change.
What I have learnt so far
Fake it until you make it!
When I started my role I felt massive imposter syndrome as I attended high level meetings and took on my own projects, but it is a learning program and you will be well supported. I have had the opportunity to visit HMP Eastwood Park Prison, attend leadership conferences, magistrate courts, benefit from mentoring and leadership coaching, and met with the Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Nichole Jacobs. I am currently working on developing provision for alcohol related brain damage but also have worked on reducing reoffending, written briefings for boards and developed the complex needs strategy. There is no typical day at all! Sometimes I am in meetings all day, others times working with external partners at workshops, or even shadowing different departments. One of my biggest pieces of advice is to seize every opportunity, be social, and always be willing to learn.
Don’t be afraid to take a leap! The NGDP is a great way to support local communities, develop your career, and make a difference.