The Graduate Trainee Programme is a one-year extensive programme which aims to attract talented graduates into roles in educational institutions in fundraising, alumni relations, communications or marketing - collectively known as the advancement profession.

Most of the training will be delivered on-the-job by the host organisation while providing their new starter with a learning plan for the year, which is likely to include hands-on work experience in specific areas, project work and placements to the different teams within the office.

A complementary programme of off-the-job training events organised by CASE will take place throughout the year to support the trainees in their work and equip them with the primary core competencies needed to start their career journey.

Background

In 2009, CASE Europe developed this programme with support from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) to complement the UK Government's Matched Funding Scheme for Higher Education. The higher education fundraising profession needed to attract high calibre graduates and postgraduates to further develop fundraising and philanthropic giving with UK higher education. 

 

Purpose

CASE is committed to growing the advancement profession and thrives to identify and train talented individuals in the fundamental skills, knowledge and aptitude needed to succeed in the sector.

We aspire to support and encourage organisations to connect with their various constituencies and create equitable pathways for current and future employees whilst remaining inclusive of people of different ethnicities, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, and ability levels.

Find out more about CASE Diversity Mission and Zero Tolerance Pledge. 

 

Objectives

• To identify and develop high-calibre advancement professionals in the education sector. 
• To raise the profile of the advancement profession and promote its growth.
• To create a talent pipeline and raise awareness of the various career options within the sector. 
• To share best practices, knowledge, and expertise across the sector. 

2024/25 Programme

• June–July 2024: eCurriculum: a series of webinars on the various components of the advancement profession
• June: Orientation Day: the 2024/25 cohort of trainees will meet face-to-face and be introduced to the programme
• July: Insight Day: an opportunity for trainees to meet representatives of key institutions and organisations which contribute to the advancement profession
• August: CASE Europe Annual Conference (CEAC)
• January 2025: Data workshop
• March: Asking and Major Gifts workshop
• April: Spring Institute in Educational Fundraising (SIEF)
• May: Career workshop day
• May/June/July: One-month work experience at another institution (flexible and optional)