There’s lots of options available to Knowsley pupils when they are deciding what to do when they leave school.
Some attend college to do A Levels, BTECs or T Levels and others decide to go down an apprenticeship route.
Lucy McDonald attended The Prescot School and gained GSCEs in English Language, English Literature, Maths, History, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Photography, French.
She then attended neighbouring Carmel College to study A Levels in Philosophy, Ethics and Religion, Sociology, and English Language and Literature and then went on to gain a BA Hons Philosophy Degree at The University of Leeds.
Now back in Knowsley, Lucy applied for Knowsley Council’s Rotational Graduate Development Programme – a two year placement split across three 8 month placements, working in different services and departments across the council. The council’s graduate programme offers paid employment whilst gaining invaluable experience, training and additional qualifications.
Opportunities include Policy and Performance, Health and Safety, Commercial Services, Highways, Estates and Building Surveyor, with more opportunities becoming available throughout the year. There is no age limit for the Knowsley Council Graduate Programme.
Lucy said “The council’s graduate programme was ideal for me as I was keen to gain experience across different departments. I saw it as a valuable opportunity to broaden my understanding of local government and develop professionally through diverse exposure.
“I am currently on my first rotation in Communities and Neighbourhoods and will start my transition across to Policy and Performance next month.
“I have really enjoyed my time in Communities and Neighbourhoods because not only is everyone very lovely and welcoming, but I have also been able to contribute to several different workstreams which will be fundamental for my professional development. I also work closely with senior management which has given me insight into strategic decision making and leadership approaches.
“At the council, there are there are plenty of opportunities for training and development. Since joining, I have started my Higher Apprenticeship Project Manager qualification and also attend internal professional training sessions.
“The council also has a range of employee networks – set up by employees for employees. I currently attend the Youth Employment Network which enables me to meet other young people starting out in their career and I also attend the Liverpool City Region Graduate Network events where I can meet graduates from other councils in the city region.
“The rotational aspect of the graduate programme is a great opportunity for me to learn about different services in the council and also to see where my strengths and interests lie.
“This programme is providing me with an invaluable stepping stone into the world of work and I look forward to continuing my journey with the council.”
Recruitment for the council’s graduate programme takes place in January and June each year and vacancies, as well as the benefits for working for Knowsley Council, can be found at www.knowsley.gov.uk/yes