Training Programmes
In-house Training for Planning Support Staff
TRA regards the support staff in planning - administrative staff, clerical staff, receptionists, technicians etc - as a vital part of the service. For many years we have focused on the special training needs of these staff.
As well as a large number of inter-authority training events, we also offer all our workshops for planning support staff on an in-house basis.
Our in-house training provides a unique opportunity for local authorities to provide training matched to their requirements, run at or near their premises, in a systematic and cost-effective way. Where an individual authority does not have sufficient staff to run a workshop for themselves, it is often possible for an authority to invite staff from neighbouring authorities to train with them on a joint basis, thus offsetting costs. In this case we simply need a lead authority to be identified for organisational purposes.
The training takes the form of workshops with a limited number of participants (maximum 20) and an interactive, participatory style with discussion and case studies.
Current workshops
The following are examples of workshops currently on offer:
- The Basics of Planning
- Permitted Development
- The Essential Elements of Support for Planning and Listed Building Control
- Supporting the Processing of Planning Applications: a workshop for experienced technical and administrative staff
- Supporting the Historic Environment Regime
- An Introduction to the Key Elements of Planning Enforcement
- An Introduction to the Advertisement Regulations and Dealing with Applications and Appeals
- A Workshop on Validation (NEW)
Bespoke workshops
We are also happy to consider designing bespoke/tailored workshops for specific clients (although this may involve an additional cost). Topics covered in bespoke workshops developed and delivered recently have included:
- Validation and Householder Permitted Development
- Fees for planning and other applications (half day)
- Defining Development and Key Aspects of the Permitted Development Regime (half day)
- Essential Elements of Processing Listed Building / Conservation Area Consents and Applications (half day)
Download our flier on the features and benefits of in-house training.
The Planning Admin Network
The Planning Admin Network (PAN) is an initiative developed by TRA as part of its ongoing commitment to providing learning and development opportunities for those involved in the administration of the planning system. PAN is open to anyone working in, or simply interested in planning administration in England, Scotland and Wales, in either the public or private sector. Membership is on an individual basis and is absolutely FREE. See further information.
