Student placements can help shape inclusive design thinking through hands-on experience at Architecture & Access.
Student placements during university terms play an important role in helping students connect their academic learning with real-world industry experience. For architectural students, internships offer a chance to see how the profession works outside the classroom. They get to observe and take part in everyday tasks, client meetings, and project processes, gaining practical knowledge that helps prepare them for future careers.
As part of a collaboration with the University of Melbourne on various projects, Architecture & Access was one of the firms chosen to host a third-year architecture student for a six-week internship. This was a special moment for us, as it was the first time an architecture student joined our access consulting team. Working with universities and welcoming students into our niche practice gives them a rare opportunity to explore emerging areas within the built environment.
Accessibility consulting focuses on making spaces more inclusive by applying accessibility principles to architectural and interior design. During the internship, the students learn how access consulting fits into the design process and why it’s important for creating fair and equitable environments for everyone. This experience not only supports their university work but also helps build awareness of accessibility, encouraging them to consider inclusive design in their future projects.
Student Perspective
The University of Melbourne’s integration of industry placements into the course structure offers students invaluable firsthand experience in professional environments. Architecture & Access, can provide interns with deep insights into accessible design principles and the critical relationship between accessibility and user experience.
Our current internship student Jill Dutt shares:
“Working with Architecture & Access has deepened my understanding of accessibility within the urban landscape. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue either a Master of Architecture or a Master of Interior Architecture, where I’ll apply the knowledge, I have gained about access and inclusivity to my design practice. This internship has broadened my perspective on the field and highlighted how thoughtful and inclusive design can significantly shape an individual’s experience of the space.”
Although the internship program is still being developed, it has already shown benefits for both the student and our team. Having a student in the office encourages staff to think creatively and explain complex ideas in simpler ways. It also led to the creation of learning modules that reflect current industry practices. In return, the students bring fresh ideas and insights, often inspired by the latest industry practices and academic research.
This first placement has set the stage for future partnerships and resource development. By involving students in our work, we stay connected to new ideas and ensure our practice continues to grow with the industry. Student placements are more than just learning opportunities, they help drive innovation, growth, and shared learning for everyone involved.
