Graduate Planner Review

by Savills

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.1/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

A number of tasks including policy review, planning appraisals and project management to support planning applications, appeals and Local Plan examinations

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

ongoing over the course of the graduate scheme I have developed a vast understanding of planning practices and procedures, this is supported by ongoing CPD and training programmes offered by Savills and my theoretical knowledge from the masters

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

It is fantastic to be so supported by Savills and be within a cohort of 4 colleagues who are also doing the degree apprentice. It means we can support each other. Savills offers great opportunity to network

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

In terms of the graduate part of Savills seems very organised but at time as the RTPI apprenticeship is fairly new I have sensed a few teething problems with the university and it's coherence with Savills. In terms of being on the graduate programme there is great support from colleagues and line managers.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Plenty. My team are understanding of my 20% of the job to do university work and have helped to review assignments prior to submission. they are also very supportive in my role and I have regular catch ups to help with work loads etc.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

LSBU seem to be a bit unorganised when it comes to knowing the ins and outs of the apprenticeship programme. I have had a couple of catch up with the apprenticeship support and she has been very helpful. The professional profile module is also been useful to guide on what to expect from the DA-APC.

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

The masters has provided the theoretical knowledge pf planning to support my work role.

9/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Savills have a great offer of graduate, office and team social events, sports activities and networking.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Savills to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a great graduate programme which gives you fantastic experience of planning. As a graduate, I have got experience of a wide variety of projects, from a gate to 2,000 home schemes. You are on a programme with many others so there is great support and an opportunity to meet lots of people. There is also a great social side to Savills

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Savills?

Make sure you have experience. You are interested in planning and property and what is going on in the area you are applying. Be yourself and be confident. a big part of the business is the people and the relationships you make in the industry.