GradForce

Many new graduates are unaware what to expect or what is required of them as they move on from university. Being a graduate requires a graduate mentality and GradForce will ensure you leave with just that. GradForce is our bespoke, free training programme that will maximise your employability potential and develop your confidence to think and act like a professional by understanding yourself and what an employer looks for in an employee. GradForce will also provide access to graduate jobs.

GradForce is open to all final year students and CCCU alumni who completed their undergraduate course in 2024 (including those who are now postgraduate students at CCCU).

We are committed to levelling the playing field and supporting students who are most underrepresented in the graduate market. As such, we warmly welcome students from the following groups:

• Students from black heritage
• Students with visible or non-visible disabilities, including neurodiversity
• Students from low socioeconomic backgrounds
• Students from low participation areas
• Students who are care experienced.

If you have any questions, please email the GradForce Team or access a wealth of support from the Careers and Enterprise Service throughout the year.

The GradForce Programme

Consisting of six workshops that run alongside your usual lectures, you will:

• Learn how to recognise your strengths and build upon them
• Enable a growth mindset to face challenges positively
• Set accurate expectations
• Fully prepare for the graduate recruitment cycle.

You’ll also have exclusive access to alumni mentors, allowing you to connect with experienced CCCU graduates and Futures partners who can help you develop your skills and industry knowledge.

The programme will begin in November, with three workshops taking place before Christmas to avoid holidays and exam clashes. The rest of the workshops will take place until early March 2025. From April onwards, we will work closely with you, helping you in your search for suitable graduate-level opportunities. 

In order to complete the programme, you must attend all of the six core sessions. Successful completion of the programme will not only result in confidence and preparation when entering the graduate job market, but also a signed certificate you can add to your LinkedIn profile and CV.

The programme will conclude in celebrating at an awards ceremony, where you will receive your certificate, and prizes are available to be won as a reward for your commitment, dedication, and in recognition of becoming a GradForce graduate.