UK Development Forums
Planning Master's Student Placement

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About the Role
UK Development Forums (UKDF) is looking for an enthusiastic Masters student, currently studying at University, with an interest in property, planning, development and regional growth to support its work across the Cambridgeshire, Norfolk & Suffolk, Thames Valley and Greater Cheshire Development Forums.
This is a one-year, part-time, paid placement, offering an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience of the property and development industry, working closely with professionals from the public and private sectors and contributing to discussions around some of the key issues affecting development across the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the UK Development Forums team across a range of research, events and communications activities, including:
- Researching Local Plans, Spatial Development Strategies, planning policy and wider government reforms affecting development
- Monitoring news and policy developments relating to housing, infrastructure, transport, water, economic growth and regeneration
- Preparing briefing notes and research ahead of Development Forum meetings
- Supporting the organisation and delivery of meetings across the UKDF regions
- Researching and identifying potential speakers, members and organisations to engage with the Forums
- Liaising with local authorities, developers, infrastructure providers, consultants and other stakeholders
- Attending Forum meetings and supporting the preparation of meeting notes and follow-up communications
- Producing content for UKDF communications, including LinkedIn posts, newsletters and member updates
- Supporting research into prospective members and helping UKDF continue to grow its network
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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What You Will Gain
- This role offers exposure to a broad range of issues across the property and development sector and provides the opportunity to:
- Build an understanding of the UK planning and development system
- Gain insight into the relationship between developers, local authorities, infrastructure providers and other stakeholders
- Develop research, communication and professional writing skills
- Attend industry meetings and hear directly from senior professionals working across property, planning and development
- Build a professional network across both the public and private sectors
- Gain practical experience that complements university study and supports future careers in property, planning or development


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Skills and Experience
- We are looking for someone who:
- Is currently undertaking an MSc in Planning (or Spatial Planning and Development) at University
- Has a genuine interest in property, planning, development or the built environment
- Has strong research and written communication skills
- Is organised and able to manage a varied workload alongside their studies
- Is confident communicating professionally with different organisations and stakeholders
- Can work independently while also contributing as part of a small team
- Is keen to learn about current issues affecting the development industry
The position offers a unique opportunity to see these conversations first-hand and gain an understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping development across different parts of the UK.
How to Apply
To apply, please send a CV and short covering letter to info@ukdevforum.com by 21st Sep 2026.
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