Local Government Association: The National Graduate Development Programme is a two-year graduate management development programme, run by the Local Government Association. The programme has been set up to provide local government with the high-calibre managers their communities need – and to give committed graduates the training and opportunities to make a positive impact to the sector. They can provide you with a launch pad for a successful leadership career in local government. National Management Trainees (NMTs) are employed by a participating authority on a two-year, fixed-term contract. The programme is built on a series of placements in key areas within a council and offers a range of experiences and challenges. You are given a broad understanding of different aspects of local government in strategy, front-line service and support. Over the two years you will also benefit from being part of a national peer group, giving you the opportunity to take part in a national induction event, join an established knowledge-sharing network and participate in an accredited series of learning and development components. Any degree discipline can apply.