Life as a Graduate Planner at NAPC – Diary Entry 5
In this blog, Joe talks us through his continuing journey as a graduate planner at NAPC. As well as what he’s been working on, and how he feels his skills have been developing.
Growth in confidence
I have been working at NAPC as a graduate planner for over 19 months and feel that my skills have developed enormously since I started working at the company. Every day is still a learning day, and I am regularly developing my skills and knowledge in town planning, and annexe planning.
No two applications or sites are the same, which keeps the job interesting. It allows me to apply what I have learned in my degree and whilst at my job, into practice. My confidence and ability to make judgements on new enquiries and ongoing projects have improved massively. Some applications are more challenging than others, but this helps me test my knowledge and ability and helps me develop further.
Improving my skills
I have started to become more involved in taking on new customer enquiries, as well as the business projects that I already oversee. These projects provide a great opportunity for me to show initiative, demonstrate my ability as a planning consultant and provide advice and recommendations to potential clients.
Variety of projects and workload
In addition to standard planning applications, my workload and responsibilities have gradually grown as I have developed as a planner. I have also been involved in other cases including feasibility studies, enforcement cases, and business CPD workshops. I feel strongly, that my team is helping me become the best planner I can be. And their support and guidance have been invaluable.
Future growth
Plans for my future growth include building upon the skills and knowledge I have developed so far. I hope to become even more involved in handling my projects to demonstrate my competence and ability as a planner. I am also recording my professional development on my way to becoming a fully RTPI Chartered Town Planner.
Further reading
To read my earlier blogs go back to the blog page, or click through the blogs below.
