ARU Summer Internship Scheme 2026: Planning Trainee Intern
Company name: Thompson Planning Limited
Pay rate: £13.45 per hour
Location: Epping
Hours: 20 hours per week
Term: 10 weeks
Start date: Late June
Application deadline: 21st June
Interview dates:TBC
Thompson Planning Limited is an independent planning consultancy providing professional planning advice and support across a wide range of development projects. We work with clients on residential, commercial, educational, and mixed-use developments, delivering expert guidance through all stages of the planning process.
Our team is involved in all aspects of planning, including planning policy, development management, and enforcement. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality planning solutions while providing opportunities for aspiring planners to gain valuable industry experience.
The successful intern will work alongside experienced planning professionals and contribute to live projects, gaining practical insight into the planning profession and the development process.
The role
The Planning Intern will support the planning team in researching, monitoring, and coordinating planning projects while assisting in the preparation of planning applications and supporting documentation.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Undertaking planning history searches for sites and properties.
- Preparing initial drafts of Planning Statements, Supporting Statements, and covering letters.
- Assisting with the preparation of planning application forms and validation checklists.
- Supporting spreadsheet management and the development of project tracking systems.
- Working with the Planning Portal to prepare and submit planning applications.
- Assisting with the monitoring and coordination of large-scale multi-phase developments.
- Conducting planning policy and legislative research to support project work.
Person spec
- Current ARU student from a relevant undergraduate degree course.
- Ability to organise and complete tasks successfully with minimal supervision.
- Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and social media platforms.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Knowledge of planning policy and planning legislation.
- Well organised, logical, self-motivated, and adaptable.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a close-knit team.
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle for business use.
- Ability to work in a high-pressure environment.
- Ability to demonstrate creativity and innovation in problem solving.
Learning outcomes
At the end of the internship, the successful intern should be able to demonstrate:
- An understanding of the planning application process and supporting documentation requirements.
- Experience using the Planning Portal and preparing planning submissions.
- The ability to undertake planning history and policy research.
- Skills in project tracking, monitoring, and reporting for complex development projects.
- Enhanced professional communication skills through client interactions and project work.
- An understanding of planning policy, development management, and enforcement functions.
- Increased confidence in working within a professional planning consultancy environment.
Experience Offered
The successful intern will gain experience through:
- Working on live client files and planning projects.
- Managing and maintaining tracking and monitoring systems for key projects, including a large multi-phase residential development and a London college expansion project.
- Attendance at Public Inquiries as an observer.
- Participation in client meetings.
- Project monitoring and evaluation activities.
- Site visits and development assessments.
- Exposure to planning policy, development management, and enforcement work.
How to apply: Please click on the 'apply' button ensuring your CV is attached along with a cover letter which showcases your relevant skills and experience for the role.