Visit to Savills raises the roof on aspirations

“That the sky is the limit.” That’s how one learner described what they had taken away from a recent visit to the Bristol offices of Savills, where Year 8 students from Bridge Learning Campus took part in an inspiring Future Ready employer visit exploring careers in property, regeneration and urban design.

After being welcomed to the office by Anne Digby and the Savills team, students enjoyed a tour of the stylish workspaces before heading into the boardroom to learn more about how regeneration projects had shaped Bristol over the decades. Using real examples from across the city, students explored how areas can be transformed over time to better meet the needs of local communities.

Students then took on the challenge of imaging a new future for the Galleries Shopping Centre in Broadmead, encouraging them to think creatively about what Bristol and young people like them need from public spaces. Working in teams, learners became their own regeneration companies, developing ideas for sustainable, community-focused spaces that people would want to use for years to come.

Students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, producing imaginative ideas ranging from rooftop lakes and wildlife gardens to hostels and food-sharing kitchens for people experiencing homelessness, before confidently presenting their designs back to the group. The activity helped learners develop teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills, while also introducing them to the careers involved in shaping cities and communities, including planning, sustainability, and development. Students also learned more about the different pathways into these rewarding roles through working with the Savills’ graduates and apprentices.

The students highlighted how much they enjoyed having the opportunity to work together on the challenge and they clearly relished using their imagination and creativity in the design task. Anne Digby said “The students’ wonderful feedback made my day. Visits and activities like this make such an important difference, the whole Future Ready initiative is amazing!”.

Bristol WORKS would like to say a huge thank you to Anne and everyone at Savills for hosting such a welcoming and inspiring visit. Experiences like this play a vital role in helping young people broaden their horizons, build confidence and see the exciting opportunities that could shape not only their futures but the communities around them.

This activity was funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Careers Hub.