Spring & Summer 2026
Heads of Planning Scotland have been working with the University of Glasgow, the University of Dundee and Heriot Watt University to offer places to students currently studying planning qualifications.
Scottish local planning authorities are opening up a range of voluntary placement opportunities for students from Scotland’s planning schools during spring and summer 2026. These short-term placements offer a valuable chance to shadow experienced planning officers and learn about the day‑to‑day practice of local authority planning.
Each planning authority will be able to offer a different experience. Please check the information below for further details. Students should get in touch with the listed contact for further information and to confirm places.
Important Information
- Placements will be offered on a first come first served basis.
- Placements are a voluntary supplement to your studies and will not contribute to course credits.
- Each planning authority’s offer will be different, please check the information below carefully.
- Placements must be confirmed by the local authority contact listed in the information below.
- Placements are not paid.
- Travel expenses have to be covered by students.
Glasgow City Council
A full-day student visit to Glasgow City Council’s Planning Service, featuring introductions to planning work, sessions on development management, spatial strategy, and the city development plan, followed by a site visit and feedback session.
Dates: Thursday 23rd and Wednesday 29th April
Capacity: 5 students per day
Itinerary: Download here
Location: Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX
Contact: Julia Lapthorn (julia.lapthorn@glasgow.gov.uk)
With thanks to the following planning schools for their contribution to this work.
HOPS 