Frequently asked questions

To apply to the vacancies within the Planning Academy please visit our careers website here.

To apply to the Planning Academy candidates need to meet the following criteria:

You must have:

• A first or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in any subject

OR a lower second-class honours degree where relevant planning and development experience can be demonstrated.

• English and Maths qualifications at Level 2 equivalent to GCSE A*-C or 9-4.

You must NOT have:

• Membership to the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and/or hold a post graduate qualification accredited by the RTPI.

Desirable

• Valid driving licence. You will need to be able to travel for site visits as part of the role and attending the degree course in-person when required.
  

Providing you meet the requirements; you can proceed to complete the online application form which requires the following information:

A CV:

The CV section is an opportunity for you to detail your career history. It should outline your previous roles, the length of time you were employed within each role and a brief description of your role, responsibilities and duties which demonstrate relevance to the role you are applying for against the essential criteria.

A Personal Statement (Maximum 400 Words)

The personal statement is an opportunity for you to tell us why you're a suitable candidate and how you meet the 'Essential Requirements' in the role profile. It’s helpful to include examples demonstrating transferable skills that you have gained from your previous experiences.

1) Filling out the application form

All applications are made on the Milton Keynes City Council Jobs page here.

Before starting your application, you will be asked questions to identify quickly whether you are eligible for the postgraduate apprenticeship programme.

Applications will close at 23:59 on 28 May 2023

(Please note: you will need to be eligible to work in the UK to apply to the vacancy).

2) Shortlisting

We will assess your application based on the 'Essential Requirements' set out in the Role Profile.

All candidates will be advised of the outcome.

3) Interview Presentation Submission

Candidates successful at the shortlist stage will be asked to prepare a PowerPoint presentation before the Assessment Day.

This presentation will assess research and communication skills, and the ability to analyse information and reach conclusions. Full assessment requirements will be sent to successful candidates with their interview invitations.

4) Assessment Day

Candidates successful at the shortlist stage will be asked to attend the Assessment Day scheduled during the morning on Monday 3 July 2023.

This session will introduce you to the Milton Keynes City Council Planning Service. There will be group activities to assess your group working skills and observe how you meet the Council's values and expectations listed here.

5) Interview

Candidates successful at the shortlist stage will also be invited to interviews arranged after the assessment day. These are currently completed in person and successful candidates will be contacted and invited to a face-to-face interview at our Civic Office.

Candidates will be asked to bring certificates for the required qualifications. If you are unable to locate evidence of your English and Maths qualifications, let us know as soon as possible to allow an assessment to be arranged.

Interviews will start with you presenting your presentation submitted ahead of the assessment day, followed by competency-based questions.

6) Joining MKCC

We will consider performance across the assessment day, presentation and interview to identify the strongest candidates to offer the two graduate positions to.

Successful candidates will be contacted following the interviews.

No. The Planning Academy is open to all graduates.

Take a look at the route map of becoming a Chartered Town Planner here

The course is 3 years.

This role can be carried our remotely, however, you will need to be in the office at least 1 day a week. Your main office will be at Milton Keynes City Council Civic Office, 1 Saxon Gate East, Central Milton Keynes, MK9 3EJ.

Yes. You will be allocated 20% (1 day) off to study for the course.