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Graduate Programme

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We are proud to be part of the National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP), which is a two-year management training programme run by the Local Government Association.

We offer successful applicants a fantastic opportunity to gain invaluable experience across the council and make a positive impact in Southend while studying for an ILM Level 7 Certificate in Leadership and Management.

During the two-year programme, our Graduate Management Trainees complete at least three placements across the council, providing an insight into different service areas with exposure to a variety of projects and workstreams. As part of these placements our Graduates have the opportunity to help tackle some of our city’s biggest challenges such as social housing and health inequality to social care and the environment.  Successful candidates will also be part of a national network of graduates on the programme, on a course that is tailored to equip learners to become future leaders within local government.

We look to recruit graduates from any background, university and degree. Most importantly, we are looking for candidates who demonstrate a real passion for developing their career in local government whilst making lives better for the people of Southend-on-Sea.

Who can apply?

Applicants must:

  • have obtained a 2:2 undergraduate degree or higher by end of July 2022
  • live, work or study within the boundary of borough of Southend-On-Sea
  • have the right to work in the UK without employer sponsorship

How do I apply?

Please note: The application deadline for the October 2022 intake has now closed.

As part of the application you will be required to complete a Situational Judgement test, where you will be presented with a number of scenarios relevant to the programme, with multiple ways of responding.

For applicants who progress to the next stages, this will involve a video interview and then a virtual half day assessment centre, all hosted by the NGDP.

The NGDP will put forward all applicants who pass these assessment stages for interview, with those who have applied specifically for the programme at Southend, guaranteed an interview for the programme at Southend.

For further information on the programme or application process, please visit the Graduate National Development Programme website or contact southendgraduates@southend.gov.uk