careers cafe: urban planning

At lunchtime today, Head of Careers Mrs Kinder was delighted to organise the latest in our series of Careers Cafe events, and to welcome Senior Planning Officer (Urban Design) at Rochdale Borough Council, Michael Atkinson-Smith and Associate Director, WSP Matt Hard, to deliver an inspirational and informative presentation on careers in urban and town planning for those of our students from a variety of year groups who aspire to work in this sector, and who are interested in finding out more.

The presentation began with a fascinating map of last century Trafford, pre-planning and development:

Our students were then guided through what a town planner does and their role in helping communities, companies, and politicians decide on the best way to use land and buildings. This includes their vital contributions to: a sustainable future; housing quality; community access to green spaces, to jobs and to public infrastructure; their role in the fight against climate change, and in the economic prosperity and success of local communities and businesses.

The students were also able to see the practical implementation of these roles and strategic planning in case study examples.

Michael and Matt then went on to illustrate the many and varied roles and facets of urban planning, including: development management; planning policy; enforcement; conservation and heritage; urban design; technical support and digital transformation; GIS; regeneration; place management; ecology and environment; highways and infrastructure; legal and governance; and consultancy.

Finally, before getting the opportunity to ask questions, it was time for our students to learn about the key skills required for a career in this field, including: written and verbal communication skills; negotiation and influencing; presentation; organisation; I.T. and technical skills; self-motivation; desire to learn; confidence; resilience; resourcefulness; and integrity.

With huge thanks to Michael and Matt for visiting UGS today and giving their time to inspire our students, and to Mrs Kinder for organising this fantastic opportunity for them.

Watch this space for updates on our next Careers Cafe!