This report reviews the Graduate Scheme and seeks approval of a further investment from the Economic Development Fund into the scheme in 2017/18.

In accepting the recommendation, Cabinet will approve and recommend to Council that £28,000 is allocated from the Economic Development Fund to the Graduate Scheme in 2017/18 to enable continued delivery of the scheme in this financial year and that funding for the Graduate Scheme from 2018/19 onwards is considered in a further report to Cabinet with the outcomes of the Policy Review on the Graduate and Modern Apprentices Schemes.

The subject of the decision:

This report reviewed the Graduate Scheme and sought approval for further investment from the Economic Development Fund into the scheme in 2017/18.

Alternative options considered:

None.

The reason for the decision:

Cabinet was satisfied that continued investment into the Graduate Scheme would support the target within the Council Plan to support a further 7 graduates in 2017/18 and support the Council’s priority of driving economic vitality.

THE DECISION:

That Cabinet approves that:-

(1)        £28,000 be allocated from the Economic Development Fund to the Graduate Scheme in 2017/18 to enable continued delivery of the scheme in this financial year; and

(2)        funding for the Graduate Scheme from 2018/19 is considered in a further report to Cabinet with the outcomes of the Policy Review on the Graduate and Modern Apprentices Schemes.