1. How has your experience been as a Part 1 at JTP?

Alp: It has been really valuable. I have seen multiple projects through to submission, picked up so many skills in software especially, and I’m much more familiar with the side of architecture that has to do with practice, management and legislation. I will always be grateful to JTP for giving me my first architecture job and helping me take my first steps on the ladder.

Nicole: My time at JTP has been such an exciting, busy, informative and memorable part of my development. In just under a year, I have developed a diverse range of hard and soft skills, discovered where my interests lie in the field and grown my understanding of where I want to be in the future. I have also enjoyed the social side of the office, having met countless friendly people that have really contributed to my sense of belonging.

Noah: JTP has fostered and supported both my learning of architecture and design, as well as helping to develop my ability to make valuable and relevant contributions to various projects.

Gus: I have been very lucky with my experience as a Part 1 so far. When you leave university, you have an idea of what practice will be like, but you’re still inexperienced. I have found that JTP understands the importance of creating an environment where people want to stay, continue learning and fulfil their potential.

2. Tell us about a JTP project or moment this year that you’ve enjoyed as a Part 1.

 Luisa: Recently I have been working on a 600 home masterplanning project, which by the time I leave this September I will have seen go from start to finish. It’s been really interesting seeing the project evolve and the design develop through client feedback and design iterations. It was particularly exciting to see some of my own concepts put forward to the client for feedback.

Emily: I have really enjoyed working on Sayers Common and playing a large part in the Masterplan Framework Document. I really enjoyed the responsibility and achievement I felt from seeing this task through from start to finish in great detail.

Anis: I have really enjoyed being involved in community engagement. As architects and placemakers, I think it offers a perspective that drawings, surveys and site analysis alone can’t always capture. It helps reveal what people genuinely value about a place and what they need from it.

3. What has been the most surprising thing about working in practice compared to your expectations coming out of university?

Emily: I am surprised by the value JTP has placed in the voices of young designers. I am regularly asked my opinion about a drawing or design that I didn’t expect this early in my career. This has helped with my design judgement.

Jasmine: It was surprising how many more people are involved in a project compared to at university. In university it sometimes feels like we are taught to design independently, with big and bold ideas, I assumed practice would be similar. However, the reality of working in practice is actually very collaborative, both within JTP design teams and with how consultants guide and influence design decisions.

Anis: I was surprised by how AI is used as a practical tool to support everyday tasks, from improving efficiency to assisting with image creation. At university the use of AI seemed taboo, yet in practice it has shown me how it can be used professionally and responsibly as part of the design process.

4. What advice would you give to students who are applying for Part 1 placements?

Luisa: Be passionate! Don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm and your personality. Practices understand that you’re there to learn, not to know everything. But they can’t teach you how to engage with colleagues and build good client relations. Your portfolio can be just as good as everyone else’s, but your attitude is what will set you apart.

Nicole: Cast your net wide but don’t sacrifice your own values, and don’t be discouraged if it takes time to find the right place for you. The Part 1 year is a formative part of your personal and professional development, as well as being a big commitment, so it’s important that you enjoy where you work as much as possible.

Alp: Your application portfolio is to get your foot through the door; it should simply be a preview of your work. Take your time with cover letters. Don’t forget that white space on the page is your friend.

5. What would you say to practices who are considering whether to take on Part 1s?

Anis: Taking on Part 1s is really an investment in the future of the profession. We may not have years of practical experience yet, and we’re still learning, but we bring energy, enthusiasm, a real diligence and willingness to contribute and learn, and fresh perspectives shaped by our own lived experiences.

Jasmine: Part 1s are the next generation responsible for how your towns and cities will one day function, being a part of their journey is so rewarding, and you can truly help to shape their approaches to the world. They are valuable and hardworking members of the team and should be given a chance to shine.

Noah: Part 1s are a vital group of people to positively influence the outlook and priorities of architects’ practises and their approach to the built environment. To support and invest in the younger generations is to know that you are pursuing valuable development for both the current and coming generations.

6. How has this year shaped what kind of architect you want to become?

Gus: JTP’s focus on placemaking and engagement has inspired me to go down that route in the future. Being around people who care about it and are revolutionising the way we do engagement has been inspiring, so it’s hard not to get involved.

Emily: This year has shaped me to become a more thoughtful and innovative designer.

Noah: Being considered, understanding, honest and transparent are key to building good architecture. To be in-touch and involved with the communities for which we provide housing and influence spaces are vital to making positive improvements to the built environment.

Thank you to our talented bunch of Part 1s for all their hard work and insights – Gus Brockwell, Anis Dobranja, Emily Keen, Luisa McIntyre, Alp Noyan, Jesica Simanjuntak, Nicole Sutton, Jasmine Tjoonk and Noah Verhoog.

We look forward to welcoming our 2026-27 cohort soon!