Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Our bespoke programme of short courses on planning and related topics can be selected from a wide and expanding menu of standard units, or tailored to specific training needs.

The programme allows groups of decision-makers and staff to receive high quality training at low cost (compared with sending delegates away on conferences/courses). Courses are delivered on local authorities' and other organisations' own premises during weekdays, evenings or Saturdays. They can be given to a single organisation, or to a consortium. The suite of established courses have been run with considerable acclaim for more than 140 local authorities over the past decade.

We have a wide and expanding array of courses and training programmes. All are eligible for CPD (continuing professional development) accreditation. In the case of training for elected members in local government, attendance can be used as evidence of capability for decision-making on quasi-judicial matters such as development control/ planning applications.

The short course programme is composed of both 'repeat' courses such as 'Introduction to the Planning Process' and 'Introduction to Design' that occur several times a year, and more specialised courses that are offered in response to demand and need. For example, we are currently offering courses in Strategic Environmental Assessment in a context where this requirement is being introduced into the statutory planning process.

Current programme of bespoke training courses

The courses develop from the research activities of the Faculty and therefore provide topical, up-to-date practice-related information and advice. The team of trainers is highly experienced in teaching and training methods. Two of the team have been local authority councillors (on planning committees) and all trainers are expert in town planning matters.

The Department has a team of trainers with considerable experience of university, and practitioner teaching. Many of the team have been involved in the Department's CPD / short course programme over several years. Skills cover the full gamut of planning practice and law. Some of the team have experience as elected members on local government as well as professional qualifications in town planning and cognate professions.

Training sessions are run in an informal but directed way with the frequent use of workshops, simulations and practical examples. Lively interaction – through questions and answers and direct response to specific concerns or interests of delegates – is a hallmark of the Department's approach. Tailor-made courses can also be offered on these or other topics. For example, the Department can offer any of the modules included in the ODPM syllabus for elected members.

CPD Bespoke courses may be put forward under professional schemes as contributing towards CPD. Certificates of Attendance can be provided if required. The Department is also open to discussing your special requirements and devising new courses for particular needs.