The role:

As a Project Management Apprentice within Southwark’s Planning and Growth division, you’ll step into a role where purpose and impact come together. Over the course of this two-year programme, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking council team that drives development projects which shape communities and support sustainable growth. From your first day, you’ll gain exposure to the full project lifecycle – from early planning and design, through to delivery and handover.

You’ll work alongside experienced project managers and officers, contributing to a wide range of development projects that directly influence how people live, work and experience the borough. Your work will combine site visits, desk-based project activities, and essential administrative tasks, giving you the opportunity to build strong organisational skills while learning recognised project management methodologies in a real-world setting.

Alongside your practical experience, you’ll complete a structured training programme with a designated learning provider, leading to a Level 4 qualification in Associate Project Management. With access to workshops, training sessions, and mentoring from specialists across the division, this apprenticeship offers a unique chance to grow your career while making a positive difference to one of London’s most dynamic boroughs.

Why this role stands out

• Build valuable experience within the Planning and Growth Division, gaining a broad understanding of how services shape the borough.
• Follow a clear pathway for personal and professional development, combining practical experience with a nationally recognised qualification.
• Contribute to meaningful projects that make a real difference to local communities, supported by experienced colleagues in a collaborative environment.

Key responsibilities

• Assist experienced Project Managers in delivering development projects from inception to handover.
• Support day-to-day project activities, including administrative tasks and coordination of workflows.
• Contribute to the preparation and management of project documentation, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Attend site visits and meetings to gain practical insight into project delivery and stakeholder engagement.
• Balance workplace learning with structured study, completing assignments, assessments, and workshops on schedule.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and other apprentices to support smooth project delivery and team objectives.

What you'll bring to the role:

What you’ll bring to the role

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs (grades 9–4 / A*–C), including English and Maths, plus one of the following, equating to a minimum of 48 UCAS points: Level 3 NVQ/SVQ, National BTEC qualification, or 2 passes at A-Level (Grade D or above).
• A demonstrable interest in Project Management and the Built Environment.
• Familiarity with business IT applications and an understanding of the importance of accurate data collection and reporting.
• Experience of working in a customer-focused environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and concisely.
• A willingness to learn, take on new tasks, and develop practical project management skills.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage your own workload effectively.
• A flexible, team-oriented approach with a commitment to supporting colleagues and contributing to team objectives.

Join us and gain valuable experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. This is a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and play your part in shaping Southwark’s future. We especially welcome applications from Southwark residents.

Why Southwark?

Southwark Council is the largest local authority social landlord in London, managing 55,000 homes lived in by 40% of Southwark’s residents. We are home to over 18,300 businesses including iconic London venues such as The Shard, The Tate Modern and Borough Market along with conservation areas, historic buildings, social enterprises and a young, diverse, and growing population.

At Southwark we are committed to making our borough just and fair and are taking positive action to tackle inequalities.?Our residents and communities are our greatest asset and the passion we have for Southwark is shared by millions of Londoners who enjoy our outstanding cultural offer, use our hospitals, and attend our universities. Our refreshed borough plan and focus on Southwark 2030 and Southwark Stands Together, underpins all that we do.

Employee benefits

You’ll join a motivated, driven, and supportive team that values each of its members and strives for excellence. You’ll also be part of a successful, high-achieving development team making a real difference to the lives of residents across the borough. In return for all your hard work, skills and experience, you will receive:

• A competitive base salary (pro rata for part time staff)
• Strong supportive senior management team
• Regular one to one supervision
• Professional development & training opportunities
• Clear career development pathways
• Agile and flexible working arrangements
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Season ticket and cycle loans
• Annual Leave starting at 27 days per year, increasing to 35 (with length of service) (pro rata for part time staff)
• Wellbeing programme
• HSF Health plan and eye care scheme
• EAP employee assistance programme, confidential counselling and support
• Social clubs and staff groups

Additional information:

This role is being offered as a fixed term contract for 2 years. We encourage any internal staff to gain agreement from their substantive line manager if considering this as a secondment opportunity.

Full time, 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

This is a hybrid role, with time split between working from our offices and from home.