Working in local government doesn’t need qualifications or experience if you are looking for early career jobs. There are many alternative routes into local government!
Some of the best alternative routes into local government jobs include apprenticeships and T Levels. You can also try this virtual work experience with Surrey County Council. It will give you a good understanding of the jobs available and what you could do!
What qualifications do you need to work in local government?
You can find great local government jobs as a school leaver. Some local authorities may ask for at least 4 GCSEs, A levels, or equivalent qualifications, depending on the job or training programme. For certain jobs, you may need a degree or specific professional qualification if you are working in a specialist role like public policy or town planner. But you can build up to jobs like these over time. Every oak tree starts as an acorn!
What experience do you need to work in local government?
You don’t need any experience to apply for opportunities like local government apprenticeships or T Levels. You can often apply for local government work experience placements that help you get the experience you’re looking for, too.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide people with an opportunity to learn on the job, gaining knowledge and skills and achieving qualifications while earning money. Local Governments have a number of different apprenticeship opportunities for you to apply for.
T Levels
T Levels are qualifications for students after GCSEs and are equivalent to 3 A Levels. These 2-year courses have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses, so the content of a T Level meets the needs of industry. As part of T Levels you will need to complete an Industry Placement. Councils are now working with providers to offer Industry Placement opportunities. Students have already completed Industry Placements within our Digital, Planning and Construction teams.
Graduate Schemes
Local government can provide successful graduates with a launch pad for a rewarding leadership career in local government. Graduates have the opportunity to apply for the National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP), which is a two-year graduate management programme.
Scholarships
Some councils run scholarships which gives young people the opportunity to work within Local Government and give them an insight into different roles.
Work Experience
As part of your course, you may be required to complete a work experience placement. Councils have offered opportunities in a variety of services for students to complete their work experience. This is a great opportunity for you to develop your skills and put what you learn from your course into practice.
Supported Internships
Supported internships are a structured, work-based study programme for 16 to 24-year-olds with SEND, who have an education, health and care (EHC) plan. The core aim of a supported internship study programme is a substantial work placement, facilitated by the support of an expert job coach. Some councils offer Supported Internships as a route into Local Government.
Traineeships
A traineeship is a skills development programme that includes a work placement. It can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year, though most traineeships last for less than 6 months. Traineeships are another useful entry route into Local Government.
Other opportunities
It is important to keep a look at other opportunities within Local Government. Councils have supported young people with the Kickstart scheme previously. Find your local council for early career opportunities, or explore jobs in local government.
Picture yourself working in local government
You don’t always need qualifications and experience to work in local government.
#LocalGov careers are for everyone!
Working in local government
