Our annual work experience programme invites young people from areas where our projects are based – we actively seek collaborations with schools and youth organisations. Our aim is to provide a broad, engaging introduction to the complex processes of urban design and the built environment while helping students build confidence, connections, and inspiration for future careers.

Our programme introduces how real-world projects develop, from site analysis through to design proposals, guiding students through urban discovery and design. We open up our network to the next generation of urban designers, introducing students to our collaborators to expand their ideas about the breadth of roles and space they can make for themselves in our industry.

This summer, we hosted eight brilliant students from Camden, Westminster, Ealing, Chelsea and Clacton for our work experience programme, led by urban designers Sarena Shah and Anna Wahlen.

Focusing on Smithfield Market, students developed their own proposals for transformative urban change through mapping, site visits, creative research and talks from our team on inclusive placemaking. They were encouraged to think creatively – whether addressing real challenges or exploring imaginative ideas – to design changes they would like to see in the city. The students’ proposals were bold and impressive, bringing lots of new ideas.

As part of our Marble Arch Youth Assembly, they also explored Marble Arch through poetry, collage, and written manifestos, considering how their experiences can shape the future of the spaces around them.

We were also joined by our friends and collaborators – including economic consultants, Volterra for a collaborative ‘15-minute cities’ workshop and architecture studio Carter Gregson Gray for an insightful Lunch & Learn.

Thank you to everyone who contributed, and best of luck to all our students in their future studies and careers.