A guest writer for Planning Potential this week, as we hand over to Hettie Wood, a Birmingham City University Student...

I am a student at Birmingham City University (BCU), and I have completed 2 years of my 3-year Property Development and Planning degree. My course does not typically include a placement year; however, I have secured a year placement with tp bennett a global architecture and interior design practice. Recently tp bennett arranged for me to spend time with Planning Potential so, that I can benefit from a wider planning experience. 

Prior to obtaining my work placement, I was awarded a place at Gothenburg University’s Summer School for Sustainability, here I studied a course on climate change based on the U.N. Sustainability Goals and sparked an interest in sustainability that I wanted to explore further.

I approached tp bennett as I wanted a career where I could contribute to making places and buildings more sustainable. I was aware that tp bennett had an ambitious sustainability strategy, and I was eager to be part of their sustainability team.

For the last two weeks at Planning Potential I have had the pleasure of working alongside the planning, communications and heritage teams. From undertaking research into a local community in preparation for an engagement programme, to site visits and archive research, I have been able to broaden my understanding of all that goes in to achieving successful sustainable development.

I feel privileged to have had this work experience opportunity. At BCU and many other universities, students are required to source their own placements. For me, especially with the aftermath of COVID this was particularly difficult and frustrating. I contacted many organisations and businesses which did result in some short periods of relevant and valuable work. In order to gain a good exposure to particular fields of interest I was hoping for longer employment, which would help me explore career path options before I returned to university for my final year.

My determination and persistence have been rewarded as I am now halfway through a work experience that has exceeded my expectations. In addition to improved confidence and self-efficacy I have made many connections and good friends. More importantly, I have acquired professional workplace skills and further reinforced my commitment to sustainable development.

I am now eager to finish my studies, so that I can start a career with architects, designers, and planners, to face the current global challenges. I know I am now able to offer an employer so much more.

I urge more professionals in our sector to forge links with universities, and to consider the benefits of providing work experience opportunities. After all, investing in students now is investing in the future.

Finally, thank you tp bennett, Chris Webb, Head of Sustainability, in particular, and to Planning Potential for all your support and for providing me with my wonderful work experience opportunity.