The role
Pathways to Planning is a graduate programme intended to attract a diverse group of individuals to fast track their career as a local government planner. The programme will support graduates and equip them to develop as professionals through varied work experience, on-the-job mentoring and a fully funded master’s qualification in planning.
Facing a huge demand for new planners, local councils are deeply committed to identifying and nurturing the next generation of talent to deliver sustainable local plans, prepare for climate change, provide affordable housing and manage the ongoing development of their communities.
As a graduate planner on the Pathways scheme, you will work full-time as part of a local council planning team on a two- or three-year contract, starting in September 2025. You’ll earn a salary of £24,000 - £35,000, depending on where you are based. We work with councils in England and Wales, using your preferences to steer where you will be based.
As a Pathways Graduate Planner, you will learn on the job through varied work experience and by studying part-time on an RTPI-accredited master’s or equivalent Level 7 apprenticeship course, either of which will provide you with an MA or MSc in Planning. Your employer will help select and support your application to an appropriate course once you have secured a place on the programme, and you’ll have paid time off work to study (usually one day a week). All course fees and expenses are completely covered.
About you
Pathways to Planning is looking for graduates from any degree background, including those with no prior knowledge or experience of planning or local government. The programme will measure your fit with a career in planning through a carefully designed application process that you’ll find outlined on our website (pathwaystoplanning.org). You can learn about a career in planning as you progress through the application process! Resources are available on our website to help you prepare for assessments: please make use of these to give yourself the best chance of success.
The requirements
Pathways to Planning welcomes graduates from all backgrounds and areas of study*. Our only requirements are:
- A minimum 2.1 undergraduate degree by August 2025 so you can start work in September 2025.
- You must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme (until August 2028). Unfortunately, we are not able to sponsor visas.
- *This programme is not suitable for graduates who already have a master’s degree in planning, or substantive work experience in planning.
For more information on eligibility and right to work requirements please visit our website or email planning.support@local.gov.uk.
Closing date: 12.00pm midday, 13 February 2025
Interview date: May 2025
Start date: September 2025
