Work Placement Testimonial©TIBBALDS 1The benefits of an internship at Tibbalds

Work Placement Testimonial

The benefits of an internship at Tibbalds

What did you achieve during your internship?

A greater understanding of how planning works in practice alongside other disciplines.

How would you describe your work relationship with your supervisor?

Although my particular interest is in planning, I was fortunate to experience working alongside various people across different disciplines in order to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible. Everyone I worked with was extremely encouraging and welcoming, regardless of my knowledge - or lack of it! My supervisor ensured that I sampled a variety of interesting projects. I was also lucky enough to join colleagues on a number of site visits and engagement events, which enriched my experience further.

How has it impacted your professional and personal development?

As a result of the programme, I now have a clearer idea of my professional goals and am excited by the future career prospects on offer. Being allowed the freedom and responsibility to assist on actual projects has definitely made me more confident and allowed a greater understanding, not just of planning policy, but how to answer queries from clients, ask the right questions back and establish productive working relationships.

How would you describe the culture of the organisation?

Tibbalds is a multidisciplinary practice and as a result is made up of a diverse group of people with varied expertise and experience. This means there is always someone in the office who can answer any queries and assist on projects. The atmosphere is fairly relaxed and collaborative and as we are a small company you get to know everybody relatively quickly. As an employee owned business, we are engaged in helping make the day to day running smoother. Outside of the normal working day, we frequently join in debates and conversations on relevant topics, visit interesting projects and take time to socialise out of the office.

VeloCity Masterplan Image: Assisted the team with research and submission to the NIC

“As a result of the programme, I now have a clearer idea of my professional goals and am excited by the future career prospects on offer”

After joining us for a six week placement as a Planning Assistant, we asked Lizzie Bundred Woodward to reflect on how she found her work experience placement with Tibbalds.

Work Placement Testimonial2 ©TIBBALDSThe benefits of an internship at Tibbalds

The benefits of an internship at Tibbalds

What advice would you give to future interns willing to join Tibbalds?

Advice to future interns would be to make the most of the opportunity, take initiative where possible and ask questions when needed. Everyone is always happy to help if you ask, particularly if it’s a topic that they are passionate about, which is often the case. Even if you start with a specific idea of what you are interested in, be flexible and willing to learn about other disciplines and subjects as you may surprise yourself.

What is the next step for you?

Following the programme, I was lucky enough to be offered a permanent position at Tibbalds. The experience and knowledge that I gained during my internship has more than prepared me for this next phase of my career. Moving forward, I hope to go back to university to undertake an RTPI Accredited Master’s programme. Tibbalds actively encourages and assists with further study for accreditation.

Brentford Lock West Illustrative View: Researched and reviewed relevant planning issues for the upcoming third phase of the overall scheme

Hornsey Road Illustrative View: Researched relevant planing policy issues

Princes Parade Illustrative Sketch: Assisted with post-planning consultation responses

“Everyone I worked with was extremely encouraging and welcoming, regardless of my knowledge - or lack of it!”