Archive for the ‘Public Sector’ Category
Surviving the PGCE interview
April 21st, 2010
Posted in Public Sector
So you think you have what it takes to become a teacher…. But what about having what it takes to tackle the PGCE interview?
With up to ten applicants for every one place at some universities, the course is in popular demand. Competition is high, so we thought you could do with a heads up on the interview process.
Sam Atkins from Birmingham has recently been accepted onto the Portsmouth University PGCE course for Secondary School teaching, key stages three and four. The Grade met up with Sam to find out more about how he coped with the lengthy interview and grueling process.
So what makes an ideal teaching candidate? After speaking with Sam it was clear why the interviewers decided to put him through onto the course, his friendly nature and passion for teaching were clear from the start of his tale.
More than a bit special
April 10th, 2010
Posted in Public Sector
Choosing to commit to a career in the police force can be a daunting decision at the best of times. With the competitive, challenging application process in place, you need vigorous determination to succeed, so why not volunteer in the force beforehand?
The West Midlands Special Constabulary is a force of trained volunteers, who work alongside, and support, our local police. Known as “Specials” the volunteers are equipped with the same powers, training and similar uniform to regular police officers, giving a true insight into the public sector.
Police Constable, Andy Towe, told The Grade why volunteering with the specials is so beneficial.
Joining the army
March 19th, 2010
Posted in Public Sector
Current military student, Ami Johnson, gives her views on joining the army in our first vodcast.
Studying at Birmingham City University, Ami looks forward to graduating as an Adult Nurse at the end of this year.
Explaining student life under army command, her recent trip to Uganda and her hopes and wishes after graduating, Ami’s ethusiasm for the role is evident.
Joining the army from Georgie Campbell on Vimeo.
Being on the beat:
February 26th, 2010
Posted in Public Sector
Rewarding, challenging and fun
Our local police force are beginning the long search for dedicated and inspired recruits in the lead up to the Olympic Challenge of 2012.
Currently standing proud as the second largest police force on the mainland, West Midlands are looking to maintain their title with top quality new recruits to represent and reflect the communities they serve.
Voted into Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers of 2009 and The Times Top 50 places where women want to work in 2008, West Midlands Police continue as one of the best performing forces in the country.
Police Constable Andy Towe told The Grade why he was so proud to be part of a inspirational institute:
“For me, the big selling point is every day is different, during my 28 years service I have been involved in many different incidents and served for 21 years as a firearms officer, so the opportunities are almost endless.”
The application process, although long and gruelling, highlights those really suited to the position. Proving you have what it takes can be considerable hard work, but here Andy helps The Grade understand the process.
New Podcast: “Recession still to come” for Public Sector
February 9th, 2010
Posted in Public Sector
Dave Harte provides the opinion this week as The Public Sector remains in the limelight.
Download or listen to the podcast below to see what the recession still has in store for industries including schools, universities, healthcare, policing, and other public sector industries.
Government cutbacks makes graduation even harder
February 9th, 2010
Posted in Public Sector
The end of the recession was a cause to celebrate for all those in higher education, who can think about graduation with a hint of renewed optimism. But good news did not last long for those aiming to use further education to launch a career, as the Government revealed plans to reduce University budgets by £449 million.
As Britain showed it first economic growth for a record six quarters, following improving unemployment figures across the country, the prospects of getting a job at the end of the academic year were boosted.
However, for university hopefuls leaving school at the end of this academic year and the next, there has been a further blow to their chances of getting a university place, let alone graduating.
Government plans to cut University budgets have lead to experts saying that the higher education system in Britain will be close to a ‘meltdown’.
In an attempt to continue its plans to halve the country’s debt by 2013, the government is on the verge of crippling a sector that can contribute heavily towards achieving that plan.
