Summary
An exciting opportunity to join the award-winning Planning Team as a Planning Apprentice, to develop skills, gain a qualification and knowledge within the field of planning (including planning applications, Planning Policy, Planning Enforcement and Heritage Conservation) and help provide a first-rate planning service across South Staffordshire.
Wage
£18,832 a year
NJC Annual Pay Award (Pending)
Training course
Chartered town planner (degree) (level 7)
Hours
Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm + Hybrid Working.
37 hours a week
Start date
Monday 1 September 2025
Duration
5 years
Positions available
1
Work
Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.
What you’ll do at work
* Successfully complete the Level 7 Chartered Town Planner Apprenticeship qualification under the supervision of your line manager/training provider.
* Provide administrative duties, as required, including data entry, systems support, and engaging with our customers including responses to planning enquiries by e-mail, letter, telephone or in person.
* Attend meetings and take accurate minutes/notes when required.
* To prepare reports, policies and presentations for Officers and Members, and when appropriate present this information at relevant meetings.
* To use a range of software packages and maintain and develop information databases; spreadsheets and GIS mapping.
* To deliver programmes of monitoring, research or investigation necessary to support planning decisions and the local plan.
* To undertake site visits and site assessments as necessary.
* This is an excellent opportunity to get on the career ladder in the public sector.
Where you’ll work
Council Offices
Wolverhampton Road
Wolverhampton
Staffordshire
WV8 1PX
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
College or training organisation
UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST OF ENGLAND, BRISTOL
Your training course
Chartered town planner (degree) (level 7)
Equal to master’s degree
Course contents
* Undertake research and analysis of information for planning policy formulation and to prepare material for policy, guidelines and advice. Typically this would include spatial development strategies and statutory development plans, development briefs, design guides, sustainability appraisal, materials for inquiry, advocacy or presentations in public or to councillors or clients.
* Implement policies and procedures set out in plans, legislation and related documents. Typically, this would include statutory development management, the preparation and submission of planning applications, implementation of plans or schemes for matters such as conservation, environmental improvement, economic development or regeneration, infrastructure, minerals or waste. Site appraisal, feasibility studies and other forms of study preparatory to the submission of a planning application. Planning enforcement, appeals and inquiries.
* Produce creative and innovative design strategies, policies and solutions. Typically, this would include buildings, public realm, landscaping, villages, towns, cities or other parts of the urban and rural environment.
* Collect data using appropriate systems and software, undertake investigations and research to inform quantitative and qualitative analysis and appraisal. Weigh evidence and evaluate alternative planning solutions. Make clear, integrated responses and evidence based decisions. Demonstrate sound judgement and the ability to balance varying objectives.
* Engage with and manage stakeholders and customers and build positive, relationships. Communicate, negotiate, advocate and mediate effectively and respond appropriately to resolve conflict.
* Define clear aims and objectives and deliver projects to time and to budget. Use appropriate information technology. Lead and manage a process from start to finish and evaluate the outcome identifying actions for improvement and development.
* Work in partnership. Network, create and maintain an environment where information is shared.
* Communicate clearly in writing and verbally. Negotiate and mediate. Work independently and as part of a team and lead others. Manage work and time. Customer and client care.
Your training plan
* Hybrid working with regular attendance at the South Staffordshire Council offices in Codsall.
* One day a week travelling to Bristol University (day release).
* Site Visits around the South Staffordshire area.
* Training on a daily basis initally and then regular training throughout the apprenticeship.
More training information
* Bristol University - Our Chartered Town Planner Degree (Level 7) Apprenticeship is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), with the MSc Urban Planning award satisfying the educational requirements of the RTPI. Those arriving via entry point one will take this award in years three and four.
* During year four, you'll complete the 'Agency Project', which is a six-week work placement either at your existing employer, or another organisation with your employer's permission.
* There are a variety of field trip opportunities throughout the apprenticeship.
* You be invited on a series of local trips in your first year.
* You can also attend a residential trip in year two (non-compulsory), subject to employer approval and agreement funded by the College outside of apprenticeship funding.
* In the first year of MSc Urban Planning, you'll benefit from a UK residential trip funded by the College. You can also choose to take an optional European trip in the second year of MSc Urban Planning which requires funding. This is subject to employer approval and agreement.
* Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll have access to student support and modern facilities on Frenchay Campus, including computer laboratories equipped with the latest professional software, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
* You'll also have 24/7 access to IT support, whether you're on campus or at your workplace.
Requirements
Essential qualifications
GCSE in:
* English Literature or Language (grade Level 4 (Old Grade C or above))
* Maths (grade Level 4 (Old Grade C or above))
A Level in:
* Geography/Biology (grade Level 4 (Old Grade C or above))
Degree in:
* 2:2 in social sciences, geography and planning (grade Entry Point 2 - Honors Degree)
Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.
Skills
* Communication skills
* IT skills
* Attention to detail
* Organisation skills
* Customer care skills
* Problem solving skills
* Presentation skills
* Administrative skills
* Number skills
* Analytical skills
* Logical
* Team working
* Creative
* Initiative
* Non judgemental
* Patience
* Ability to Drive is essential
Other requirements
This is a fixed-term contract until 31 August 2027 initially with a possible extension.