Due to the complexities involved in running the scheme, the recruitment process can be lengthy, often running over six months or more. We ask that you take this into consideration before making your application.
There are three initial stages: an application form, a telephone interview, and an assessment centre. Passing the assessment centre is not, however, a guarantee of a place. The final stage is a local authority interview. We really want you to sell yourself and your skills at your interview – even at this final stage, a number of candidates will be competing for each place and we are looking for the brightest and best talent. You’ll be assessed against key skills and behaviours that will be essential in your role. To help you prepare for the assessment process, we’ve listed those skills below along with definitions:
- your ability to work with others - works alongside others with sensitivity to bring skills together in order to achieve a common goal or purpose.
- your communication and persuasion skills - the ability to communicate persuasively and with confidence, both orally and in writing. Adapts style of communication to the audience.
- planning and organisation - the ability to manage time and prioritise effectively to achieve objectives and deliver work within tight deadlines.
- your drive for results - the ability to act on initiative and take responsibility for decisions to achieve results. Demonstrates tenacity in pursuit of goals; prepared to challenge the status quo to bring about improvements.
- analysis skills - the ability to identify, analyse and interpret relevant information from a range of sources to develop well-informed solutions.
- your motivation for learning - proactively seeks out opportunities for personal learning and development; prepared to learn from all experiences and apply knowledge/skills.
We’ll also be interested to find out what it is that attracts you to working in local government.