PLACED ACADEMY AT UKREIIF 2026!
In May, we took a cohort of 11 PLACED Academy Pathways and Alumni students to UKREiiF, one of the UK’s leading built environment events.
The trip offered these young people a unique opportunity to step out of the classroom and into the heart of the built environment sector, experiencing firsthand how our future towns and cities are planned and developed. The goal was to demystify the industry, expose them to diverse career paths, and give them a platform to engage directly with sector leaders.
Throughout the event, our Alumni and Pathways:
Put networking skills into practice: Following a prep session in April focused on networking skills and elevator pitches, the cohort confidently navigated the massive event, initiating conversations and building connections with professionals across planning, architecture, and construction.
Explored major UK developments: The group toured the exhibition spaces and interactive pavilions, gaining insider insight into major regional regeneration, housing, and sustainability projects currently shaping the UK.
Engaged with industry ideas: They attended keynotes and panel discussions, learning about critical sector topics like inclusive growth and green infrastructure, while seeing how different professional roles collaborate to solve real-world challenges.
For many of the cohort, this was their first time attending a large-scale industry event. By stepping into this professional environment, they not only built massive personal confidence but also gained a much clearer understanding of the varied career routes available to them. Experiences like this are vital for bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring the next generation has a voice in the future of our communities.
A huge thank you to everyone who welcomed and chatted with our cohort throughout the event. We are incredibly grateful to UKREiiF and FIB for providing the tickets that made this inspiring experience possible for our young people.