Learning and development - West Dorset District Council

Induction

All new employees are given a number of induction courses to help them settle in and understand the council and where their role fits into the overall structure. Specific training will also be given as appropriate to the role and their experience.

Appraisals

Learning and development needs are considered as part of the yearly staff appraisal meeting, so that employees have the opportunity to discuss any learning and development needs with their manager as they arise.

Trainee posts

We have a number of areas within the council where we have trainee posts. These are currently in Finance, Revenues, Human Resources and Development Control.

Staff are recruited on a structured career grade.  They study for nationally recognised qualifications and have the opportunity to progress through different grades within the career grade as they gain knowledge and experience.

Work related training

We support work related training as well as relevant Continued Professional Development (CPD) and developmental courses. We also have structured in-house training that covers a number of key areas.

Training agreements

Because of the significant investment made by the council, staff appointed into a trainee post, or those staff undertaking developmental courses will be required to sign a training agreement that commits them to repay a proportion of the training costs incurred if they leave within a certain period (normally two years).