Graduate Trainee – Pathways to Planning Programme

Are you a recent graduate passionate about shaping communities and the environments around us? The Pathways to Planning Graduate Trainee Programme offers an exciting opportunity to begin your professional journey in planning or surveying—whatever your degree background. You’ll gain hands-on experience, academic growth, mentorship, and a clear path toward full professional accreditation.

Job Description

This Graduate Trainee role is designed for individuals from any academic discipline who want to build a meaningful career in planning or surveying. Over at least two years, you will be employed by a public sector body—often a local council—where your day-to-day tasks will range from supporting planning applications, assisting in surveys of built or natural environments, to contributing to community consultations. Your employer will provide real projects, mentorship from experienced planners and surveyors, and exposure to a variety of planning challenges.

Alongside your on-the-job work, you will be enrolled in a part-time Master’s programme in a relevant subject area. This is fully funded and typically requires attending university once a week while maintaining your work responsibilities. You will receive paid study leave and mentoring support to help balance academic and professional growth. Such combined learning ensures you are building both theoretical knowledge and practical competence.

By the end of your studies and trainee period, you’ll be on track for full accreditation as a planner or surveyor. Employers involved in the programme are committed to promoting high-potential graduates to more senior positions, giving you a structured path for career growth. Additionally, benefits include flexible working arrangements, generous leave entitlement, and support to develop your skills in both built and natural environment planning.

Eligibility & How to Apply

To be considered for the Pathways to Planning Graduate Trainee Programme, candidates must meet the following criteria and follow the application steps carefully.

1. Eligibility Requirements:
   • Graduated (or expect to graduate) with at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or equivalent by Summer 2026, in any discipline.
   • Strong interest in planning, surveying, environmental design, urban policy, or community development—even if your degree is not directly related.
   • Willingness to live or work across various locations in England or Wales depending on employer location.
   • Ability to commit to a full-time trainee role with a minimum of two years of service.
2. How to Prepare Your Application:
   • Update your CV to showcase academic achievements, relevant projects, and transferable skills such as research, communication, problem solving.
   • Write a cover letter or personal statement explaining your interest in planning or surveying, what draws you to the public sector, and long-term career goals.
   • Collect references or letters of recommendation, especially from academic or professional sources familiar with your relevant strengths.
3. Application Steps:
   • Visit the official application page using the link below.
   • Complete the online application form, providing personal details, academic history, and work or volunteer experiences.
   • Upload your CV, cover letter, and any required supporting documents.
   • Submit before the application deadline. Late submissions are unlikely to be accepted.
4. After Application:
   • Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or assessment panels.
   • You may be asked to complete a task or case study relevant to planning or surveying to assess practical skills.
   • If selected, you’ll be offered a placement, assigned a mentor, and enrolled in the funded Master’s programme.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a degree in planning or surveying to apply?

No. Graduates from any discipline are welcomed, as long as you have a strong interest in planning, surveying, or working in public sector design and environment roles.

Is the Master’s programme fully funded, and what about the study schedule?

Yes, the Master’s degree is fully funded. You will usually attend university part-time, often one day a week, and receive paid study leave and support from your employer to balance work and study.

Where will I be based, and can I choose the location?

The programme works with many local councils and public sector bodies across England and Wales. While placement locations are several, you may express preferences, but final ubicación depends on employer capacity and project availability.

What career progression is possible after the programme?

After successfully completing the trainee programme and Master’s degree, you can move toward full accreditation as a planner or surveyor. From there, senior roles, specialisation, or leadership positions become accessible within the public sector.