Sandwich Placement Student Review

Working alongside Senior Planners/Associate Directors etc on larger projects and had greater responsibility on smaller projects. Research into sites and policies, submit and prepare/draft planning applications/cover letters/statements on behalf of clients, sending emails and keep clients informed, monitor and organise any comments received during the application process, keep in contact with the Case Officer. Prepared PAC for three large applications. Range of projects but mostly retail and housing, also had smaller tasks on energy and infrastructure projects.

Developed my understanding of the planning system and the planning process from an agents perspective. Communication skills have developed by attending meetings on Teams and face-to-face but also my written communication by writing planning statements, emailing case officers/clients in a professional manner. Now more efficient in Time Management, getting used to a larger workload and being given greater responsibility meant that I have developed my ability to prioritise tasks and complete within a timeframe to a good standard, which is something that I had previously struggled with during the first two years of University.

I was given a significant amount of responsibility, from the beginning I was given projects that would work on independently but also a balance of larger projects that I would work on with a Senior Member of the Team.

Offered plenty of support throughout the year from both the Graduate Team and all colleagues in the Planning Team. Graduate Team in London provided various training sessions on Teams and in person. Meeting up with other Placement Students/Graduates was very beneficial as it was an opportunity to network, but also good balance of online sessions that were easier to join. Graduate Team would check up consistently and were very easy to contact if I had any questions or concerns. The Planning Team would always assist with any task I was struggling with and my Line Manager was very supportive and approachable. Offer support and guidance on other opportunities out of the office, such as networking events, training courses, and insight days.

Very supportive and positive, friendly atmosphere.

Thoroughly enjoyed my placement year

Yes

To make the most out of the year and attend as many networking/training events as possible.