Job Overview
The Transport Planning Apprenticeship is a unique opportunity to contribute to the planning, research, and analysis that shapes the future of transport in London. Transport planners ensure that millions of daily journeys are safe, reliable, and sustainable, supporting TfL’s mission to reduce private car usage, improve air quality, and encourage active travel (walking, cycling, and public transport).
This apprenticeship provides hands-on experience across multiple disciplines, including engineering, data analysis, computer modelling, project management, and public communications.
What TfL Offers
Apprentices will receive a range of benefits, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the apprentice and a nominee who lives in the same household.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- Minimum of 29 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Access to retail, health, leisure, and travel discounts.
What Will the Apprenticeship Involve?
The three-year development programme includes at least five six-month placements, covering various transport planning functions.
Example Placements:
- Planning Projects – Conducting research and data analysis to support major growth and redevelopment projects while ensuring they contribute to a sustainable transport system.
- Investment Delivery Planning – Overseeing projects on TfL’s road network and collaborating with boroughs to implement transport improvements.
- Network Performance Delivery – Monitoring and adjusting real-time traffic signal timings across London and constructing computer models to test transport scenarios.
Additional placements may include:
- Strategic Demand Forecast Modelling
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Development Planning
Placements are flexible and tailored to business needs, as well as each apprentice’s strengths, interests, and study requirements.
What Makes This Apprenticeship Unique?
- Apprentices contribute to major transport projects that impact millions of Londoners.
- Work in a dynamic environment, collaborating with engineers, planners, data analysts, and project managers.
- Gain exposure to cutting-edge transport technology and innovative urban planning strategies.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for this apprenticeship, applicants must:
- Hold a minimum of 4 GCSEs (Grade A - C / Grade 4 and above) in Maths and English* or equivalent.
- Not already hold or be working towards a qualification at the same or higher level in a related subject.
- Be 16 years old or older by 8th September 2025.
Hybrid Working:
- 50% of working time is split between the office/on-site and remote work over a 4-week period, with flexibility depending on business needs.
Successful applicants must provide original certificates and/or predicted grades for eligibility checks.
Sustainability at TfL
Sustainability is at the core of TfL’s ethos, ensuring that transport networks operate in an environmentally responsible way. Apprentices will contribute to sustainable transport initiatives, including:
- Reducing congestion and emissions.
- Encouraging active travel (cycling, walking, public transport).
- Enhancing transport accessibility for all Londoners.
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon successful completion, apprentices may apply for various planning roles, including:
- Assistant Planner
- Assistant Project Sponsor
- Network Performance Officer
These roles can lead to senior positions as apprentices develop knowledge, skills, and experience.
Successful apprentices will also gain membership of the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), opening doors to career opportunities within and beyond TfL.
What Qualification Will You Gain?
- Level 3 BTEC in Transport Planning Technician.
- Apprentices will attend college four times per year, in 1-2 week blocks, which may be held outside of London.
What Training & Support Will You Receive?
Apprentices will receive a combination of technical and professional development, including:
- On-the-job practical experience across various transport planning disciplines.
- Online training courses and classroom-based learning.
- Structured networking and mentoring opportunities.
Dedicated Support Includes:
- Scheme Sponsor – A senior manager providing technical and professional guidance.
- Placement Manager – Responsible for day-to-day guidance and project oversight.
- Buddy System – Support from former apprentices.
- Development Adviser – Offering career coaching and progression support.
What TfL Looks for in Candidates
TfL is looking for individuals who:
- Are passionate about transport and urban planning.
- Thrive in a team environment.
- Are analytical thinkers who enjoy problem-solving.
- Are adaptable, open to new ideas, and willing to innovate.
This apprenticeship provides an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of London’s transport system.
Assessment Process
Candidates will receive support and information throughout the assessment stages.
For further details, visit the TfL website:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- Applicants have one week to complete assessments.
- Assessment centres for apprenticeship roles will take place from February to April.
- Most roles have only one assessment day (dates cannot be rescheduled).
- Assessments may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the role.
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL is a Disability Confident Employer and offers guaranteed interviews to candidates who meet the minimum criteria.
TfL is committed to ensuring a fair and robust reasonable adjustments process, collaborating with Occupational Health colleagues and other expert organisations.
Applicants requiring reasonable adjustments should notify TfL as soon as possible.
Contact Information
For further details or to request reasonable adjustments, please use the following contact information:
Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday – Friday, 09:00 – 17:30)
Email: earlycareerscampaigns@tfl.gov.uk
Important Information
Apprentices will be required to attend college four times per year in 1-2 week blocks, which may be held outside of London.