Reyhana

Project: Department of Culture, Leisure and Sport

I was a software developer with a degree in computing science. When I quit, with no backup plan, I took a temporary job with a company outsourced by the local council. That’s when I first considered a local government career. Through the networks I formed, I took a temporary job in the Council’s Policy department, met some NMTs, got on the ngdp scheme and haven’t looked back since.

I like being part of a wider remit, finding new ways to combat challenges. You’re accountable to the public, so you have to make it succeed. I work with some really passionate people with shoestring budgets and little power to change the world, but it doesn’t faze them.

Having already graduated, even if it was in software development, I didn’t want to have to start at the bottom again. The ngdp was a way to fast-track me - the diploma gave me the theory, the placements the practical.

As for the recruitment process, I hadn’t had a telephone interview before. But it was great. I sat on the bed in my pyjamas with my notes all around me! The interviewer made me feel comfortable, so I could take my time. I enjoyed the assessment centre too - lots of thinking on your feet and unexpected things thrown at you, which got the adrenalin going!

Right now I’m helping the department conduct a full self-assessment, dealing mainly with frontline staff who need to know how their work fits the wider remit. Trying to help them see why we need robust working practices for audits and PIs can be hard when they’re under pressure dealing with the public. I’ve launched a model developed by Sport England – given 1:1s, written guidance notes, held workshops and ensured everybody knew what has to be done, how, when and why.

Sometimes placements are frustrating, as you don’t always get to see things through. The programme means you start some great projects, but have to move on before the end. Also, it can be tricky if you’re in a Council where the scheme isn’t well known. You have to ‘sell’ it correctly otherwise people think you’re just another graduate trainee and won’t take you seriously.

My work life balance can get hectic with deadlines - especially regarding inspections, audits, scrutiny meetings and elections - so there are times when I come in early and finish late. But the flexi schemes compensate for this. And while managing studies can get stressful, 2 days’ study per module is enough to get an essay done. There’s help every step of the way: lecturers, reading matrial, PCs, mentors, NMTs, line managers, IDeA, forum.

I’ve learned a lot on the scheme, not just about local government working but about myself too: my preferences, how I best work, managing stress, ensuring a work life balance, managing conflict etc. I feel so much more confident in my abilities because of the scheme.