What is the Associate Programme?
Our Associate Programme is a leading job placement scheme that recruits mid-career and senior-level built environment professionals into placemaking6 roles in the public sector.
We run a 12-month job placement programme for built environment practitioners looking for a career change (Associates), and place them in jobs in public sector organisations (Authorities) looking to diversify their placemaking skills and expertise.
Associates benefit from a supportive network and training, and Authorities benefit form our unique sector understanding and reach to match them with candidates specific to their needs.
Want to learn more, scroll down the page.
Interested in applying?
Our application window is now closed and will re-open in Autumn 2024. If you're not sure if the Associate Programme is right for you, you can take our Quiz to find out if you're eligible. We'll then notify you when the programme re-opens for applications later this year.
The Associate Programme is designed for placemaking professionals looking to transition into the public sector and use their skills for the public good.
In a world facing climate change, economic instability, and social injustice, the need for people to use their skills towards shaping better places is stronger than ever. Our Associate Programme supports professionals seeking to transition into the public sector to work in place-based roles in progressive Authorities. It also presents a challenge. Change has to happen from within the system, but working within the system can be tough; whether coming up against financial constraints, changing politics or technical barriers. It needs people who know when to follow the rules and when they need to be redesigned.
Employment
Secure a public sector job
Receive a minimum 12-month employment contract of between £30-55k, with a forward-thinking Authority
Cohort
Join a community
Transition into a public sector career alongside like-minded professionals, all passionate about making better places
Support
Receive training
Gain valuable training on the essentials of working in local government through our Associates L&D Course.
Associate Testimonials
Testimonial
Joining the Associate Programme was the best professional decision I've made...Over the last year, I've learned so much more than I would have learned in the private sector
Andrej Mecava, Spring 2022 Associate
Testimonial
Had I applied for a public sector role as an individual rather than through Public Practice, I would have had serious imposter syndrome
Lauren Shevills, Spring 2022 Associate
Testimonial
My experience in the private sector might not have opened a door for me in the public sector without Public Practice.
Mark Stancombe, Autumn 2022 Associate
Testimonial
Being part of Public Practice has not only put my skills to better use, it has made me feel like a better citizen
Tilly Ford, Spring 2020 Associate
Testimonial
I have learnt much from my team, and as I learn, I can see.... there's so much opportunity to influence how those places work and function
Jack Richards, Autumn 2022 Associate