Graham Academy - Trainee Planner (Apprentice) - Thames Valley / North West London

BPIC Network; England; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car Allowance

Pension

Private Medical Cover

Life Assurance Scheme

Job summary

GRAHAM seeks motivated students for Technical Apprenticeships and Industrial Placements in their Building Division as Student Construction Planners. You will learn to plan, coordinate, and implement complex construction programmes using CAD and 4D planning, while supporting master and tender programmes on live projects.

Open to GCSE/A Level/BTEC entrants with a strong interest in technology and the built environment, this role offers funded training, hands‑on experience, and a path to

Qualifications

• Currently studying or planning to undertake a higher or degree-level course in a construction-related discipline.
• Strong IT skills and confidence using Microsoft packages.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Good attention to detail and accuracy.
• Logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Interest in technology, design, or strategy (e.g., ICT, CAD).
• Ability to manage time, stay organised, and meet deadlines.
• Willingness to learn and apply new tools and techniques.
• CSCS card preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Support the Planning team in the analysis of tender information and preparation of tender programmes
• Support the Planning team in the preparation of master programmes
• Analyse and support the Planning team in labour resource and plant
• Support the Planning team in assessing / evaluate construction methods and techniques
• Support the Planning team in the preparation of prelims
• Support the Planning team in preparation procurement and information schedules
• Support 4D Planning – Linking 3d models to programme inc: progress
• Support the Planning team in assessing project progress positions
• Support the Planning team in production of graphical presentations using CAD etc.
• Support and co‑ordinate the distribution of programmes
• Support the smooth running of planning department
• Support the Planning team in assessing project progress positions and maintains production control records.

Skills

IT skills

Microsoft Office

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Time management

Problem solving

Logical thinking

CAD interest

Education

Higher/degree-level construction-related course

Tools

CAD software

3D modelling

Job description

Job Description

Interested in technology, engineering and the built environment? At GRAHAM, we are committed to growth and innovation. As our business continues to expand, the Planning Team have opportunities for Technical Apprenticeship and Industrial Placements to join our Building Division.

As a Student Construction Planner you will;

• Be part of a planning team that plays a vital role in shaping the built environment, helping to plan and coordinate how complex construction projects are delivered.
• Gain practical, hands‑on experience, build valuable technical and problem‑solving skills, and see first‑hand how complex ideas on paper are turned into meaningful places that serve communities.
• Step into the world of major construction projects and learn how to bring them to life using the latest digital tools. From planning how buildings are put together to solving problems before they arise, helping to create the strategy that keeps construction projects on track.
• If you enjoy computers, design, and figuring out how things are built, this is your chance to shape the future of the world around you.

No experience in planning software is needed; we’ll teach you everything you need to thrive. Whether you’re completing an industrial placement and returning to your studies with fresh insight or advancing through a fully funded, industry‑recognised apprenticeship, you’ll be building the foundations of a rewarding career.

If you’re passionate about Construction and the Built Environment and have an eye for detail, this is your chance to build a career with purpose.

Job Description:

• Support the Planning team in the analysis of tender information and preparation of tender programmes
• Support the Planning team in the preparation of master programmes
• Analyse and support the Planning team in labour resource and plant
• Support the Planning team in assessing / evaluate construction methods and techniques
• Support the Planning team in the preparation of prelims
• Support the Planning team in preparation procurement and information schedules
• Support 4D Planning – Linking 3d models to programme inc: progress
• Support the Planning team in assessing project progress positions
• Support the Planning team in production of graphical presentations using CAD etc.
• Support and co‑ordinate the distribution of programmes
• Support the smooth running of planning department
• Support the Planning team in assessing project progress positions and maintains production control records.

This job description is intended to give the post holder an appreciation of the role envisaged and the range of duties to be undertaken. It does not attempt to detail every activity. Specific tasks and objectives will be agreed with the post holder at regular intervals.

About You

GRAHAM ROUTES TO BECOMING A PLANNER

TECHNICIAL APPRENTICESHIP

Technical Apprenticeships are available at a number of entry points from GCSE, A Level or BTEC awards, we are currently seeking to recruit individuals hoping to transition onto a Higher‑Level or Degree Level Apprenticeship, which are offered from Level 4 to Level 7. A Higher Apprenticeship provides a structured pathway to develop your skills while earning a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll gain valuable hands‑on experience in the workplace alongside dedicated study time, with all training costs fully funded. These programmes offer a clear route to professional body membership and can lead to rewarding careers.

Recruitment Process

• The closing date for applications will be Friday 8th January 2027.
• Interviews will commence in February 2027.
• Successful candidates will be notified in March 2027.
• All successful applicants will join the business by September 2027, with some opportunities to start earlier where possible.

Requirements

• Currently studying, or planning to undertake, a higher or degree-level course in a construction‑related discipline
• Strong interest in technology, engineering and the built environment.
• Strong IT skills and confidence working with common Microsoft packages.
• Logical thinking and problem‑solving ability.
• Good attention to detail and accuracy.
• Interest in technology, design, or strategy (e.g. ICT, CAD).
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage time, stay organised, and meet deadlines.
• Willingness to learn and apply new tools and techniques.

• Experience in a construction related environment
• Interest in how construction, engineering, or design processes come together.
• Basic knowledge of project management concepts (e.g. timelines, milestones).
• Ability to read drawings and visual information
• Understanding of 3D modelling, design software, or gaming engines (helpful but not essential).
• Creative thinking and ability to visualise how projects fit together
• CSCS card

Behavioural Competencies Essential Commercial Awareness: show willingness to build a strong business acumen combined with the creativity and vision to meet customer needs and GRAHAM business requirements.

Effective Communication skills: Able to adapt communication to audience and create detailed written documents and reports. Able to maintain and manage communication links with a variety of stakeholders. Presents a professional image and promotes the Brand.

Customer Focus: Takes time to question and understand the real, underlying needs of the customer, beyond those initially expressed. Always works closely with customers, developing an independent view of their needs and acting in their long term interest

Influencing: Identifies and builds relationships with those who will be useful now and in the future in achieving strategic business objectives.

Initiative: is able to work alone to get results in an effective way. Understands and seeks to minimise waste in resources and processes. Adopts and encourages others to adopt new ways of working. Ability to work unsupervised.

Team Player: Always willing to be involved in other activities to achieve company objectives. Works collaboratively and uses influence to gain resolution of issues. Demonstrates honestly, loyalty and commitment.

Negotiation: Ability to negotiate with both subcontractors and representatives of the Employer to ensure all contractual rights and obligations are realised and protected

Benefits

• Car Allowance
• Pension
• Private Medical Cover
• Life Assurance Scheme