Graduate jobs

Woking Borough Council are not currently taking part in the 2024 National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP). Find out more information about the national scheme.

About the programme

The National Graduate Development Programme run by the Local Government Association looks to fast track graduates to be the next generation of managers in local government. If you’re a successful applicant, you will work on issues that matter whilst building a career in the public sector, the largest employer in the UK.

Employed on a two year fixed term contract, you will complete placements across three or four key areas of our organisation which aim to provide you with a broad understanding of local government and hands on experience to develop leadership skills. These areas have previously included:

  • planning services: development, planning policy and building control
  • housing: social and private sector housing, homelessness and associated strategies
  • legal services 
  • health, wellbeing and people services
  • marketing communications
  • green infrastructure.

A compulsory corporate level placement will include either corporate transformation or council-wide projects and change management.

Skills required

The NGDP are looking for people who have the right skills, values and behaviours and can demonstrate their motivation for a career in the local government. These are:

  • working with others
  • persuasive communication
  • planning and organisation
  • drive for achieving results 
  • analysis and problem solving
  • motivation for learning and personal resilience
  • commitment to local government and the wider community
  • leadership potential.

Learning and development

You will work towards an accredited Institute of Leadership and Management Level 7 leadership and management qualification and benefit from being part of a national peer group, joining an established knowledge sharing network. The development programme is delivered online and through residential events alongside other management trainees.

Visit the National Graduate Development Programme website