Working at Barnet: Graduate experiences

What our current graduates have said about their experiences with our graduate programme

Tamara Kodikara: Mental Health, Neighbourhoods and Communities Team

How did you think it would be compared how it actually is?

From the outset, I hoped to work on challenging projects which make real impact on the community. At Barnet, this has definitely been true, but with the addition of an exceptionally supportive and friendly culture. I have felt thoroughly supported throughout my work and I am really grateful for this welcoming environment!

What skills have you learnt so far and what accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

I am really proud of the progress Barnet has made to be a Dementia Friendly Borough. In this placement I have supported with work to increase our Dementia Friendly Venues and to engage Dementia Friendly Communities. The DF partnership in Barnet has grown in numbers but also in commitment - it has been extremely rewarding to help the community join together for this cause.

What would you say to people considering joining a graduate scheme?

I would highly recommend the NGDP as it provides the chance to hit the ground running and get involved in projects that are making a real difference to the community. It’s also a unique opportunity to gain experience in multiple areas across the council and as well as get access to valuable mentoring and training.

Katherine Hancock: National Management Trainee, Youth Participation

How did you think it would be compared how it actually is?

It’s so much better than I thought it would be as I’ve absolutely loved my placement so far and I thought it might take a while to settle in and find my feet, but I’ve been really involved in all the projects right from the start and welcomed into my team.

What skills have you learnt so far and what accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

I have learnt how to manage projects and prioritise my tasks. Work is constantly coming in on top of your normal projects so it’s about finding balance and time management skills. I am most proud of the current project I am running which is enabling families in hardship to receive gift cards from a donation fund to enable them to enjoy a lovely experience as a family such as a meal out together.

What are your future goals and where do you see yourself in five years?

I hope to continue working at Barnet Council making a difference to resident’s quality of life.

What would you say to people considering joining a graduate scheme?

It’s been one of the best decisions I have made, go for it!

Niall Lees: Corporate Complaints team

What skills have you learnt so far and what accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

My technical skills have undoubtedly improved as a result of this placement, and I have also gained a valuable insight into data analysis through the data-oriented nature of much of my work. Looking to soft skills, I have been responsible for delivering this project, meaning my time and workload management skills have hugely improved.

The accomplishment I am most proud of so far is delivering a presentation to a steering group in the Council, which includes senior managers, based on the work I had been doing.

What would you say to people considering joining a graduate scheme?

Make the most of the opportunity to try out new roles, even if you have a department/role in mind already. It is rare to get the chance to work on such a variety of projects.

Beatrice Blewett: Programmes, Performance and Risk Team

How did you hear about it and why did you apply for this graduate scheme?

I found the scheme on my university’s job advertising website. I applied because I wanted to work in a job where I could be involved in a local community, and I had had experience of local policy analysis through my dissertation. As a graduate, we have great benefits including training, learning and development opportunities like the ILM. Also, I liked the idea of doing four placements to get a flavour of what working in different council departments is like.

What skills have you learnt so far and what accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

I have learnt a lot about project management which is a key skill and something I had no experience of previously.

What would you say to people considering joining a graduate scheme?

Go for it. Your passion about making a positive change for local people will shine through most in the assessment process and especially in the final interviews more than your experience. And be open to sharing your lived experiences of being in a community or engaging with a council – and what you think it did well but what you think needs improving too.

What would you say to managers considering hosting a graduate position?

Encourage your graduate to be involved in lots of different projects/ tasks/ areas as this is a vital learning time for us. Be patient and kind as we may still be getting to grips with things that you have been familiar with for a long time. Stretch/ challenge us, we want to feel like our work is making an impact! Be willing to offer support and be honest about your capacity to do so or have someone else in the team who we can go to if we need help.

Ellen Jennings: National Management Trainee, the Sustainability Team

How did you think it would be compared how it actually is?

I had not really appreciated just how much local government does so that was definitely a shock!

What skills have you learnt so far and what accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

I’ve learned a lot of soft skills around time management, stakeholder engagement, facilitation as well as more technical knowledge such as data analysis and writing committee reports. Although it wasn’t my accomplishment, I did really enjoy being part of the comms campaign for the BarNET ZERO launch and featuring in posters on bus stops around the borough.

What are your future goals and where do you see yourself in five years?

I’m not sure where I want to be exactly in 5 years’ time! I really enjoy working in Sustainability and seeing the impact this work is having in Barnet. I hope I’m still working in sustainability and making sure that everyone’s voices are heard and valued as we move to a more sustainable way of living.

What would you say to people considering joining a graduate scheme?

Definitely apply! It’s a great chance to try out different areas of local government and get exposed to a wide range of experiences. My advice would be to come in with an open mind and get involved in as much as possible. I’ve been able to do a data apprenticeship, a count clerk at local elections and a facilitator alongside my daily role.