Applied through

Licentiate APC (L-APC)

Commended

PCS

Qualifications:

MSc Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Birmingham

My career:

I graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Geography at Coventry University. Following researching into what I could do with such degree, I stumbled across planning and it soon came apparent that I would boost my chances of employment if I went on to study a master’s degree. As such I enrolled onto a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning at University of Birmingham in 2021 and graduated in 2023.

My entire professional career within planning has been at Sandwell Council with just under half of this time being whilst studying my master’s degree. I have been practising my current role as a Senior Regeneration Planning Officer since July 2024 and at the time of APC submission, I had been practising as a planner for 38 months, with 16 of these months being since I acquired Licentiate membership.

My planning career has evolved rapidly in a short space of time; starting off by providing assistance to now leading on my own regeneration projects. Being exposed to diverse projects has enriched my knowledge and expertise to a level where I can confidently deliver planning responsibilities at a senior level. I have been very fortunate to have had a number of promotions so quickly and this is a reflection of being eager to constantly learn and capitalising on opportunities. My moto is, you have to be your biggest believer because if you don’t believe in yourself who will. All you can do is try, learn and reflect if you want to progress in life, let alone a career. 

APC tips 

The first top tip is to not rush your application. Take time to prepare what your application will include as this may highlight any gaps within your experience to date. There is certainly an urge to submit as soon as possible but this does not necessarily mean you are ready.

You will know when you are ready by going over the application requirements.

Although there is clear overlap between all three application documents (PES, PDP AND PCS), you could treat them as individual assignments which helps with motivation. I personally recommend starting off with the PES as this is generally the shortest and most straightforward of the three. Similar to academic assignments there is a sense of relief when one part is complete.

The second top tip is to speak with colleagues or mentors who have MRTPI accreditation, especially those who have obtained it recently.

You will have to do the hard work but it goes a long way when you have mentors that can support your journey. I am forever grateful to my mentors who provided an abundance of help throughout my application process.

Alongside this, I strongly recommend attending events organised by your regional RTPI, especially any that relate to APC guidance because it is insightful to hear from recent applicants.

The final top tip is to choose strong case studies. I personally created mind maps on the different projects I have worked on. There were several case studies which I could have selected to write about but there was one which I found could address each competency requirement. As such, one case study ended up being sufficient to write a detailed and quality Professional Competency Statement (PCS). Choose case studies you are comfortable with and have had direct involvement on.