The NCI Charrette System is an intensive planning and design-based engagement training process covering the vital period before projects are finalised or built, to produce masterplans where everyone feels that they have had a constructive input. The charrette’s proven three-step design and engagement process can be customised for many different planning, urban design and development projects. Well known elsewhere, charrettes are gaining take-up in the UK - as demonstrated by recent charrettes in Hertfordshire, Deptford, Norwich, and Tornagrain in Scotland, and reflected in positive mention by government as part of its localism agenda.

About our charrette training courses

The University of Hertfordshire's Centre for Sustainable Communities, and its partners Parsons Brinckerhoff, Turnberry and the BRE, will be running the next round of National Charrette Institute system training in London at the offices of Parsons Brinckerhoff, just off Liverpool St at 6 Devonshire Square, London, EC2M 4YE. There are three linked courses on offer:

Course 1: An introduction to the charrette system
the course provides a lively, interactive introduction to the main aspects of charrette theory and its practical planning and implementation. No prior knowledge is needed and participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance from UH. Cost: £200

Course 2: The charrette system in detail
for those who have completed Course 1, this course employs a mix of expert lectures and enjoyable, instructive participant exercises run by expert trainers with substantial charrette experience. Participants explore the key aspects of commissioning, developing and implementing a charrette process in more detail, including stakeholder mapping and engagement, charrette workshop planning, and the integration of design and masterplanning elements. Cost: £350

These two courses can be attended separately or together over 3 days (the combined Course 1 and 2 package attracts a discount on the course fees). By completing these two courses participants will cover the complete NCI Charrette System course curriculum and will be awarded the NCI Charrette System Certificate and a UH Certificate of Attendance.

Course 3: NCI Charrette Management and Facilitation
this advanced course is for those who have completed Courses 1 and 2 and focuses on more detailed training in managing and facilitating a successful charrette process. Again through a mix of lectures, presentations and more hands-on exercises run by expert trainers with substantial charrette experience, participants have the opportunity to try out various charrette scenarios and develop their management and facilitation skills. Cost £250 Participants who successfully complete Course 3 will be awarded the advanced NCI Charrette Management and Facilitation Certificate and a UH Certificate of Attendance. Cost: £250

Course 3 can be undertaken in combination with Courses 1 and 2, or separately if the participant has previously obtained the NCI Charrette System Certificate.

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