The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is calling on those interested in broader access routes to the Level 7 Chartered Town Planner apprenticeship to apply now before reforms take place next year.
From January 2026, eligibility for government funding will limit applicants to individuals aged 16–21 (or under 25 for care leavers and those with an Education, Health and Care Plan). This change significantly narrows the scope for employers wishing to invest in planning talent through this pathway.
Employers who wish to recruit new apprentices or upskill current staff without age-based restrictions must act swiftly. Ten RTPI-accredited universities across England are currently recruiting for Autumn 2025 start dates and are ready to support employers through the process.
Since its launch in 2019, the Chartered Town Planner apprenticeship has become an essential route into the profession. It has enabled approximately 200 individuals each year to join the apprenticeship, combining academic study with hands-on experience in diverse planning roles, culminating in Chartered Town Planner status. The programme continues to be embraced by both public and private sector employers, helping to meet a growing demand for skilled planning professionals.
Dr Judith Taylor, Head of Education at the RTPI, said: “This apprenticeship has been transformative, not only in supporting career development for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, but also in addressing real workforce needs in the profession. With significant changes to funding on the horizon, we strongly encourage employers to take advantage of the current flexibility while it remains available.”
Employers such as Milton Keynes Planning Academy and successful apprentices including Amy Powell and Alex Pointer have spoken highly of the value the programme delivers, both to individual careers and to organisational capability.
To secure places for Autumn 2025, candidates and employers should contact their nearest RTPI-accredited university and help shape the next generation of planning professionals.
Other content you might be interested in
Exceptional planning students awarded bursaries by the RTPI Trust
More young people consider careers in planning following RTPI work experience programme
