Graduate Planner Review
at Savills
Degree Apprenticeship
Construction
Reading
Review Submitted: May 2023
Overall Rating
4 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.8/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
Understanding how a planner thinks Essentially focusing on how development can occur from planning policies and how they can be interpreted to provide the best outcome for the client. Monitoring is often the starting task given to a graduate planner however once you complete a couple of months you get a lot more involved with tasks which helps build experience. you essentially help the team
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I am enjoying the programme a lot. The program has provided me with a lot of confidence and self belief that I can do more with the theory that I have learnt whilst at university, with my undergraduate degree and post graduate degree. I am enjoying the aspect of learning at university too.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes many new skills. Understanding local policies will help investors and developers get the best outcome of their site. Understanding how to interact with clients and learning new soft interpersonal skills which essentially help ease the process between local planning authorities and property developers and understanding how each party often needs to reach a compromise to obtain an optimal solution
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Programme is structured fairly decently from Savills, perhaps a bit more understanding from university pressures which would help graduates and lessen the stress and impacts on their health and well-being. Similarly with universities, they have to understand that students are also full-time workers with their own pressures and that deadlines should be more spaced out
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
Having an understanding and positive line-manager makes all the difference. Some staff forget that it is difficult for graduates who are going through a lot of changes at once and require flexibility. If senior staff are more understanding of situations graduates are more likely to perform better at university and in the workplace. Saying that, if an issue is raised with staff members, they are typically understanding
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The University and Savills both provide immense support and are always happy to help. The university has a dedicated module for obtaining the qualification, and Savills provides mentors who understand the process and are able to advise accordingly. We have regular sessions and a whole module dedicated to understand how one can achieve the qualification
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My qualification greatly enhances my performance in my role. The comprehensive training provided by Savills equips me with practical skills and knowledge crucial to succeed in the real estate industry. My university's rigorous academic program complements this by deepening my understanding of key concepts and fostering critical thinking. The combination empowers me to excel and make informed decisions within my professional responsibilities.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are networking events that are always going on in the office between other companies and professions. The office is quite social however it would be nice to have a monthly/weekly get together whenever possible just to mingle outside the office. However, this is difficult to do when studying at the same time as university work occupies a lot of time
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Savills to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Savills is a great institute and has the highest professional standards that I have come across. It is not for the light hearted as the work keeps on coming and you must be able to manage your time well if you wish to succeed in the workplace and at university. However, it is a great place o work and there is very little I would change about it
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Savills?
Thoroughly research the company and its values, tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and gain relevant experiences beforehand which can showcase your enthusiasm for the real estate industry. Networking and seeking mentorship opportunities can also enhance your chances. Lastly, be prepared for a rigorous interview process, emphasizing your ability to work in a dynamic and client-focused environment. However, remember to be confident, friendly and yourself!
