Pathways to Planning is a graduate programme intended to attract a diverse group of individuals to fast track their career in the built environment as local government planners. The programme will support graduates as they jump start their career and equip them to develop as professionals through varied work experience, on-the-job mentoring and a fully funded postgraduate qualification.
The role
As a graduate on the Pathways graduate scheme, you will work full-time at a local council, earning a minimum salary of £25,000-£35,000. During this time, you’ll learn on the job through varied work experience and by studying a part-time master’s degree. Most of our graduate planners will study an RTPI accredited part-time master’s degree in Planning.
In some cases, councils will offer an accredited degree in a specialist area, such as ecology or architecture, if the role they are offering on the programme is focused on this area. 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.
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. The public sector is a critical stakeholder in managing our built and natural environments, and it needs a workforce with cross-cutting skills, adaptive knowledge and a commitment to public service.
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. If you want to play a key role in creating safe, inclusive and beautiful public spaces that promote wellbeing for people and the environment, Pathways to Planning is the perfect graduate scheme for you.
The programme measures your fit with a career in the built environment through a carefully designed application process. You can read more about the full application process at pathwaystoplanning.org.
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 2026.
- You must have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme (three years minimum, until August 2030). Unfortunately, Pathways to Planning and our partner councils are not able to sponsor visas.
The competencies
Pathways to Planning application process has been built around a set of nine competencies - these are the skills that we are looking for at each stage of the process, and have been developed for this programme to measure applicants’ potential. The competencies are:
Working Effectively Together
Works collaboratively with a diverse range of individuals, teams, and organisations to meet shared objectives. Builds effective working relationships, demonstrating political sensitivity, cultural awareness, and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Effective Communication
Effectively articulates information both orally and in writing with clarity and purpose to meet the needs of the audience. Actively listens to different perspectives, integrating evidence and insight to deliver balanced, well-informed messages.
Planning and Organisation
Proactively manages own workload to ensure successful delivery of outcomes. Can effectively balance multiple tasks and projects, demonstrating flexibility to adjust to changing priorities and circumstances.
Analysis and Interpretation
Accurately analyses complex technical and non-technical information to gain insight, assess options, and develop practical solutions. Assimilates and integrates information from multiple sources to draw conclusions and deliver evidence-based solutions.
Commitment to Local Government and the Wider Community
Is passionate and enthusiastic about serving and supporting the needs and interests of the local community and achieving meaningful, sustainable impact through the work. Recognises the broader political/economic landscape on local and national initiatives within the built environment and how own actions can have a positive impact.
Leadership Potential
Takes personal responsibility and ownership to independently drive projects forwards. Demonstrates initiative and accountability of tasks. Leads by example through their commitment to excellence, whilst providing support and leadership to others.
Motivation for Learning and Continuous Professional Development
Proactively seeks out opportunities to learn and develop, both formally and informally. Values continuous learning, development and self-improvement. Is motivated to understand the different processes, policies, contexts and legislations relevant to a career within the built environment.
Resiliency and Adaptability
Demonstrates a positive, solution focused approach when faced with challenges, setbacks or uncertainty. Remains resilient in the face of adversity, demonstrating adaptability, perseverance, and a willingness to identify opportunities for learning and growth.
Professionalism
Acts with honesty, respect, and accountability, while being mindful of the impact of their own actions. Recognises the limits of own expertise, seeking guidance and support from others as appropriate.
