Summer Scheme Student, Planning Review

The role involves deploying policy research skills to monitor and understand the current planning applications in the area. This knowledge is then used to advise clients, and to then do strategic site reviews of clients sites for development potential, leading to supporting and promoting clients sites in either a pre-application stage, local plan allocation, or in a full planning application or appeal. This role also occasionally involves site visits and meetings with council, either councilors or planning officer.

Yes, I would say I was frequently given a large amount of responsibility in my internship. I was assigned work like a graduate would, and would then produce it, present it to my senior team and given feedback on it to improve. I then be cc'd into emails or attend client meetings were i would see how this research or documents provide are used in client advise, though i would not be the person advising the client. I would say i was given a significant opportunity to try difficult tasks, which would often form the first draft of what would be sent to clients.

During this placement, I have learnt multiple skills. Firstly, I've developed my knowledge and understanding of the planning system, learning to spot patterns and understand the process that allows you to then think strategically. Alongside this came the development of my research skills, learning were to look for information and how to identify key information that is most needed. I've also learnt how to look at a site and area assess its development potential and constraints.

Support and guidance was generally excellent. I worked in a team with an open office space, with the team clustered close together. I was sat next to my mentor, a senior planner who I was able to bounce questions off. Alternatively, there was always a full team of experienced people happy to provide advise. Briefings were frequently thorough and feedback was also frequently meaningful and provided the opportunity to improve. As such i was able to take on difficult tasks while feeling supported.

The company culture was generally friendly and welcoming. The team was very warm and quick to provide assistance with any issues, and to include in any events going on the wider city and area. It generally felt co-operative and close-knit. The team had a flat structure which meant it felt very inclusive and non-hierarchical, which was a plus. The culture was also one of hard work, but with that being respected and supported, which made the atmosphere good generally.

Generally, the placement provided everything I was looking for and as such left me very satisfied with the six weeks i worked there. The work was meaningful and interesting, the team was supportive and guided me well, and i felt i improved each week i attended. The culture was interesting and inclusive, and left me feeling like a part of the team quickly. Overall, i found that i deeply enjoyed the six weeks and feel i got a lot out of the opportunity.

Yes