Southwark is a large, ambitious and progressive council with a ‘can do’ attitude and enviable reputation. As a council, we are successful, passionate and forward-thinking. We are committed to our ‘Fairer Futures for All’ promise which ensures that our residents and businesses are central to everything we do.

Southwark is an exciting place to work as we transform the way we work to reflect our drive for excellence. We recognise that having the right people, with the right experience and skills, in the right jobs, is at the heart of our organisation. Without this we cannot deliver. We believe that everyone in the team is a valued member and, we will give you responsibility and the opportunity to make a difference from the beginning.

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for three apprentices to join the Planning Team who are offering the opportunity to combine study towards a Chartered Town Planner degree with professional growth through working within a department covering Planning Policy, Development Management, Planning Enforcement, Design, Transport Policy, the Old Kent Road Regeneration team and Community Infrastructure Levy.

As an apprentice, you will be on a five year development programme, which is designed to kick-start your successful career in Planning. A combination of practical, on the job experience and theory will combine to give you an overview of best professional practice, resourcing and talent planning, performance management and planning issues. We understand that everyone’s career could be different, as every apprentice goes through their own unique journey.

We will support your technical development through a wide range of on-the-job practical experiences and placements. We will also support your professional development through a combination of classroom-led training courses, online training courses, mentoring and structured networking opportunities. You will receive one-to-one support throughout the programme from your scheme sponsor and your Line Manager. You will also be connected to a ‘buddy’ who will be a more experienced planner and a mentor for the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI). Your degree apprenticeship will be delivered by London South Bank University (LSBU).

We want to hear from people with potential and so even if you are not the finished article, don’t let that stop you from applying as we will work with you to develop and grow.

The qualities we look for in our apprentice planners are a passion for learning and an interest in geography, planning, sustainability, economics or social sciences.

You will need to demonstrate your ability engage well with customers and stakeholders at all levels and good team working spirit.

For More Information:

If you would like to join us online on 21 July to find out what it would be like to work with the Southwark planning services and hear from LSBU about the apprenticeship course, please contact apprenticeships@southwark.gov.uk and we will send you an invitation

Application Process:

If you are interested in applying for this role, please complete the application form and submit your suitability for the role, by using the Personal Specification to highlight your skills.   The Personal Specification can be found at the bottom of this page under attachments. 

Additional Details

This a Apprentice Role for 5 years

To apply for this role you must meet the following criteria:

Southwark Residents aged 18 – 24 will be given priority.

Location:  London Bridge

1. A Southwark schooled, resident or attended a Southwark college or have received Southwark leaving care services
2. Hold 5 GCSEs A-C / 9-4 including Maths and English or equivalent
3. 3 A levels grades BCC or equivalent Level 3 qualifications or Level 3 Planning Technician Apprenticeship​

Recruitment Timetable

Closing Date: 24 July 2020

Interview Date: 11 August 2020

(COVID-19) - information for job applicants Southwark Council are following the most recent Government guidelines surrounding Corona virus. During this period, we still look forward to receiving your application and if successful, we will be conducting interviews remotely via video link.  Details will be confirmed via email, if successful.