At entry level, you will be employed on a permanent contract. You will follow a structured learning programme with plenty of support along the way. The team structure allows for progression opportunities from career entry to post-qualification.
At Bracknell Forest Council, we have developed an academy model for career development. It is available to all employees from their first day.
Within this model is a range of career progression programmes for our employees to choose from.
Each programme has a defined development pathway that lay out clear steps for career progression. With us, you will always be learning and getting the support you need at every stage.
Programmes are available across our services, covering areas such as audit, finance, and social care.
Our values, ‘inclusive’, ‘ambitious’ and ‘always learning’, underpin our academy model.
Academy model pathways
Our pathways have 3 stages:
- entry into career
- career progression
- developing and retaining expertise
Finance career pathway example
Accounts apprentice (entry into career)
Assistant accountant apprentice (career progression)
Once Level 4 qualified, you will have the skills and experience to apply for a senior accountancy officer post. As you progress, you may also consider applying and studying for Level 7 (accountancy professional apprentice).
Accountancy professional apprentice (developing and retaining expertise)
Training, rotation and post-qualification experience will set you on the path to becoming a finance business partner.
Entry-level and new careers
External routes into entry-level and new careers, which are supported by the academy model include:
Impact (the Local Government Graduate Programme)
Impact is a 2-year graduate development program from the Local Government Association where graduates earn a CMI Level 7 qualification in Leadership and Management. This qualification helps to equip trainees as leaders in the public sector. They also gain experience through placements within their local authority.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships offer valuable work experience and a recognised qualification. Plus, you earn money while you learn. Our academy model includes entry-level and career progression apprenticeships.
Step Up to Social Work
Step Up to Social Work is a 14-month, full-time programme with a focus on child and family social work funded through the Department for Education.
Advantages
Our academy model offers the following.
Skills development and growth
You will:
- access tailored training that helps you build new skills and enhance your current abilities
- stay up to date with industry trends, boosting your confidence and performance
Career advancement opportunities
We will offer you:
- clear pathways for career progression within the organisation
- qualifications and certifications that can open doors for promotions and new roles across the council
Personalised learning
You will get:
- flexible training options that fit your needs and learning style, including online, in-person, and hybrid programmes
- a choice of courses relevant to your career interests and professional goals
Increased job satisfaction
Our model will help you to:
- feel more competent and valued in your role through continuous learning and development
- engage with meaningful training that directly improves your day-to-day work
Networking and collaboration
You will have the opportunity to:
- connect with colleagues across departments, expanding your professional network
- learn from internal experts and share best practices to enhance team collaboration
More information
If you would like more information about our career pathways or academy model, email academy.model@bracknell-forest.gov.uk.
