Liz Bateson - Hammersmith & Fulham, Master Business & Finance Heriot-Watt University

What was the scheme like for you?

After just over three years on the scheme, I am now fully qualified and have applied for my first substantive post within Hammersmith and Fulham. During these three years, I have worked in Corporate Finance, Environment, Direct Services, and Internal Audit. Every placement has challenged me in a different way, and allowed me to build a solid accounting knowledge, from both a corporate and departmental perspective.

The placements allowed me to participate in a number of different working groups and project teams. This gave me a wide variety of experiences, which helped me to complete many areas of the IPDS.

How would you describe your working environment?

I found that all of the departments I've worked in have had a good team atmosphere and been positive and friendly. This allowed me to settle into each placement quickly and make many friends and useful contacts. The inductions I received from managers at the start of each placement, set out a work programme and helped me to understand how I fitted into the team. They were also very supportive in creating a workload that would allow me to spend plenty of time on my revision and exams - especially as they fall right in the middle of the budget and closing periods!

What was your experience of studying for CIPFA?

Balancing the demands of college and exams with work was a struggle at first - particularly as I had returned to studying after a year off. Over the years however, it became much easier, and my exam technique improved considerably. Making good friends at college also helped both in term and exam time, when I had general CIPFA and specific course queries.

What would you say were the benefits of the scheme to you and your future career?

The trainee scheme has provided me with an excellent public sector accounting knowledge, and a good basis for my future within local government. It has developed my managerial, communication and interpersonal skills, which I am now putting to good use as a manager and departmental representative on strategic working groups. Working in teams with a forward-looking attitude and a good social network was also fundamental to my positive experience. I now hope to progress upwards to senior management within local government, and pass on any hints and tips to the new trainees.