Summer Scheme Student Review

In my role as a planning summer scheme placement student, I support the planning team by contributing to both development and policy‑related work while building a practical understanding of how planning principles are applied. On a daily basis, I formalise planning applications, undertake site analysis, and prepare supporting application documents that assist colleagues in forming applications against relevant policy. I also carry out research tasks for projects, observe/engage in meetings with and participate in discussions to understand how professional judgement is formed within the planning process. Through this work, I am developing confidence in interpreting policy, analysing development sites, and producing concise, professional documentation that supports effective decision‑making.

From my first day on the placement, I was given clear roles and responsibilities that enabled me to contribute meaningfully from the outset. This early involvement helped me to feel embedded within the team and confident in taking ownership of my work. I was trusted with tasks to complete independently, which were then reviewed by senior colleagues to support my learning and ensure that my work aligned with professional standards. This approach allowed me to develop my skills quickly, gain insight into expectations within a planning environment, and build confidence in producing professional planning documentation that contributes to wider project work.

Throughout my placement, I have strengthened a wide range of technical and interpersonal skills that have supported my growth as an emerging planning professional. Working independently on tasks and receiving feedback from senior colleagues has refined my analytical approach, improved the clarity of my professional planning writing, and enhanced my ability to carry out effective site analysis and apply planning policy in practice. Alongside this, daily interaction with colleagues and participation in meetings have developed my communication, confidence, and adaptability, enabling me to work constructively within a multidisciplinary team. Contributing to research tasks and observing client engagement has further strengthened my professional judgement and ability to collaborate. Together, these experiences have provided a solid foundation for my continued development in the planning sector.

During my time on the placement, I received a high level of guidance and support from colleagues across the department and wider office, which created an environment where asking questions and seeking clarification felt straightforward and encouraged. I had the opportunity to work with a wide range of professionals across the planning team, while also gaining valuable insight from the valuation and development teams within the organisation. Although the support available to me was consistently strong, I was also given the independence to manage my own tasks and contribute meaningfully to ongoing work, with the reassurance that assistance was always available when required. This balance enabled me to develop confidence in my professional judgement and strengthen my ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary setting.

The company culture throughout my placement was characterised by a strong commitment to inclusion, diversity, and collaboration. The atmosphere across the office was consistently welcoming and supportive, with colleagues demonstrating openness, respect, and a willingness to share knowledge regardless of role or background. I felt encouraged to ask questions and contribute to discussions, which created a positive environment for learning and professional growth.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement and found it to be both engaging and rewarding. The combination of supportive colleagues, a positive and inclusive office culture, and opportunities to take on meaningful responsibilities made the experience genuinely fulfilling. Working on a wide range of projects has given me a much deeper understanding of planning in practice and has confirmed that this is the career path I wish to pursue. The placement offered far more than I expected, providing valuable professional experience alongside opportunities for networking and social cohesion, site visits all of which contributed to a highly enriching experience. Overall, the scheme exceeded my expectations, and I would highly recommend a Savills summer placement to anyone considering a future in the planning/real-estate profession.

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