When I left university I was unsure what I wanted to do. I had spent four years at the University of York, from where I gained a BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics and an MA in Political Philosophy, but I did not feel that I was qualified for anything particular. I was interested in working in the public sector, and also keen to develop a profession for myself. The Graduate Trainee Scheme has given me the opportunity to train as an accountant, while also gaining experience of the public sector.

 

The experiences and opportunities I have had on the scheme have exceeded all my initial expectations. I have received continued support as I have progressed through my CIPFA studies, which I have managed to balance successfully with my work placements and outside interests. While on the scheme I have had to develop, not just accounting knowledge and capabilities, but also a whole range of other skills needed to perform effectively in a professional environment, for example, project management, presentation, IT and leadership skills.

 

One of the unique features of this scheme is the broad range of experiences that I’ve been exposed to during my placements in all three organisations. I have worked in financial planning, financial control, internal audit, children’s services and finance business development departments. All of these placements have exposed me to a wide range of financial, political and social issues that impact on public sector bodies.

 

I am in my final year of CIPFA studies and have now left the Graduate Trainee Scheme and taken a permanent position in the Strategic Finance division of the Metropolitan Police. In terms of the future, I feel that the skills and experiences that I gained from the scheme have opened many doors for me. It is exciting to consider the number of possible directions in which I may choose to develop my career.