Before joining the scheme in September 2005, I studied Eastern European History at University College London and graduated in 2003. I travelled for 7 months to Thailand, Australia, New Zealand and North America, and then worked across the finance and marketing departments for an international development charity for 9 months.

 

The opportunity provided by the Graduate Trainee Scheme to work in six different financial departments across three different organisations is quite unique. The breadth of experience this gives stands you in good stead for making a decision at the end of the scheme on which area of finance you would like to work in and what type of organisation you would most enjoy working for.

 

My first placement at Hackney Council was working in the Corporate Accountancy team during the closing of accounts. This was excellent experience as this process is a fundamental part of the finance role in any organisation. The most important thing I learned was the necessity for good communication and good working relationships between departments in the process of completing the final accounts.

 

As I am only half way through the scheme, it is sometimes hard to think beyond the scheme or even past the next set of exams. But during each placement you cannot help but think ‘Would I like to work in this area?’ and it is as much about ruling out areas as it is about counting them in. Also, the continuing task of completing CIPFA’s IPDS (Initial Professional Development Scheme) work log, along with regular meetings with my Mentor, help provide focus.