At HBD, we love creating amazing spaces and we’re just as passionate about helping shape futures. This July, we had a cohort of passionate work experience students join us to explore the world of property development, and in doing so, offered fresh perspectives, thoughtful reflections, and enthusiasm for what it means to create great places.
We got the chance to talk to some of the students; Alexandra, AbdiAziz and Alfie, who shared their experiences and what they learned during their week with us.
Hearing about HBD
Our cohort discovered the opportunity to work with HBD through various ways. Alexandra discovered the opportunity through her school’s careers advisor, Alfie’s school helped him contact HBD about the opportunity and AbdiAziz found out through the enrichment sessions offered by his school, Phoenix Academy.
We’ve been working with Phoenix Academy for over two years now as our colleague Elgan Jones has the role of Enterprise Advisor there. Elgan helps the Careers Team develop their programme in connecting education and the world of work. We work closely with Phoenix Academy to host work experience, visit career fairs at the school, along with hosting workshops and presenting to classes.
Why property development?
For Alexandra, she was interested in how property shapes communities. Alexandra was drawn to its fusion of design, planning, and business. Alfie enjoyed looking at the architectural origins and diversity of roles in the property sector—seeing buildings not just as structures, but as the starting points for vibrant places. AbdiAziz sees property as a means to revitalise local infrastructure, leaving a lasting footprint on communities. Their interests reflect the sector’s potential to make real, meaningful change.
Lessons and challenges
The students didn’t shy away from challenges or getting stuck in. Planning regulations, lengthy development timelines, industry-specific vocabulary, and complex qualifications revealed just how deep this sector goes. Alfie noted the level of detail required, Alexandra grappled with the intricacies of regulations, and AbdiAziz observed how approached differ—showing that there’s no one-size-fits-all path in property.
Standout moments
From visiting rooftop terraces to on-site meetings, the week was packed with memorable experiences for all: Our newest net zero carbon workspace Island in Manchester proved a hit with both Alexandra and Alfie, who were inspired by seeing how the vision has turned from early ideas into a reality.
Alfie was fascinated by the careful design process behind Golden Valley, our once in a lifetime project at the heart of the UK’s National Cyber Strategy in Cheltenham.
AbdiAziz enjoyed a trip to HBD’s newly appointed lawyers in London and said it opened his understanding about how there are many different roles that fall under the property sector that he wasn’t aware of.
Takeaway tips
We asked the students for their top tips to take away from the week with HBD.
“Always be curious and ask questions.” – Alexandra reminds us that learning never stops and the importance of asking questions.
“Be a jack of all trades, master of none.” – Alfie realised versatility is key in property development.
“Don’t second guess your interests.” – AbdiAziz highlighted the importance of trusting your instincts, especially in negotiations.
What’s next?
These students brought energy, insight, and fresh ideas to our team—qualities we believe are the foundation of a great career in property. We’re grateful for their contribution and excited to see where their journeys take them next.