Following the success of our first pilot, this 6-session online programme is designed to support recent or soon-to-be planning graduates by bridging the gap between university study and working in the planning profession.

The scheme was developed in direct response to feedback from our volunteers and employers, who highlighted a recurring challenge: graduates often leave university with strong theoretical knowledge, but limited exposure to how planning works in practice, the range of planning roles available, and the day-to-day processes used in the workplace.

As one participant put it:

“I have found that my planning MA covered a lot of theory but very little of the nuts and bolts of procedure so it was very useful to get some more insight into this…”

What does the scheme offer?

Over six free sessions, participants will:

• Learn how planning operates in real workplaces, not just in theory
• Hear directly from experienced planners across different sectors
• Gain practical insight into key processes employers expect graduates to understand
• Build confidence, clarity and career direction
• Feel better prepared and more competitive when applying for planning roles

Another participant shared:

“The programme has made me feel much more confident and prepared to apply for planning roles in the UK, and I would definitely recommend it to other graduates…”

Programme structure

Part 1: Learning from experience

Wednesdays, 12 – 1pm

• 4 February
• 11 February
• 19 February

These sessions feature planners working across a range of roles and organisations, helping graduates understand  the variety of planning carriers available, how different roles fit together and what different jobs actually involve day-to-day.

As our Volunteer Coordinator explains, hearing from practitioners helps to support graduates who may be unsure which direction to take.

Part 2: Interactive training sessions

Dates TBC (likely): 11, 18 and 25 March

These practical sessions focus on key planning topics that most new planners will encounter, including:

• Permitted Development
• Validation of Planning Applications
• Reports of Handling

Participants work through real-world style exercises, helping them move beyond theory and understand planning processes in practice skills they can use from day one.

“I’ve enjoyed learning about planning as it is actually practiced in the workplace beyond theory…”

Who is it for?

• Recent or soon-to-be graduates
• Early-career planners looking to strengthen practical knowledge
• Volunteers interested in progressing into planning roles

The programme focuses on the Scottish planning context with a strong emphasis on local authority roles, while also exploring opportunities across wider sector.

Share this opportunity

We’d really appreciate if you could share this opportunity with students, graduates, interns or early-career planners who might benefit. It’s completely free, online, designed specifically to support people at the start of their planning careers.

“It was a great opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect with others who share a passion for planning and development…”

Want to know more or take part in the programme?

If you are interested in taking part, please contact Joanne Elston at jo@pas.org.uk