Bridgwater College has launched a brand new Apprenticeship in Town Planning, which has already met a demand within Sedgemoor District Council.

There is currently a housing shortage in the UK, with a number of skills shortages in the industry. Bridgwater College’s innovative Town Planning Apprenticeship, which has been developed with the RTPI and Construction Industry Council, can help employers address these problems.

The Level 3 qualification is unique to the South West of England and can be completed on a block release programme, where apprentices attend College one day every two weeks. The Apprenticeship will benefit those working in a technical or administrative support role and looking to achieve membership of the RTPI and is available to new and existing staff.

Caroline Derrick, Employment, Skills and Development Manager at Sedgemoor District Council said,

“Sedgemoor District Council is tackling the challenge of a severe shortage of skilled workers in the planning system head-on by growing its own experts via an innovative Town Planning Apprenticeship, developed and delivered in partnership with Bridgwater College.

“The apprentice planners contribute to the day-to-day work of the Development Control team through the processing of a variety of planning applications and carry out other duties associated with the planning application process. The apprentices give an opportunity to improve productivity, fill skills gaps, professionalise the technical support function and provide increased career and progression pathways. This, in turn motivates the staff, energises the workplace and reduces staff turnover.”

To find out more about this innovative industry-developed Apprenticeship, contact our Business Development team on 01278 655111 or email business@bridgwater.ac.uk.