What's it like to work at Jefferson Sheard?
Part 1 Architecture Student
Jefferson Sheard is not your average architectural practice. Working here feels like being part of a large family - everybody respects and supports each other and people are always, always approachable with any questions I have had. This approachability, coupled with the wide range of skills and abilities of the staff, has proved to be a fantastic catalyst to my architectural education.
Jefferson Sheard's support for my education does not, by any means, end with answering questions I have. From paying tuition fees to subsidising the costs of materials for my course, the practice has constantly and consistently provided the support I need as a Part 1 Graduate. Most recently supporting me through my first year studying part time at DeMontfort University. Being able to discuss my designs with colleagues at work provides a vast pool of knowledge I can tap into anytime I need to.
The support and assistance is not just limited to my education. When I approached the firm asking if they would take part in the government-backed national subsidised cycling scheme, they immediately took my request on board and, one month later, I had a brand new bike at 60% of the retail cost, at no expense to the firm. Commuting to work by bike every day is not only good for my health but also does that little bit extra to reduce my carbon footprint. There is also that satisfying feeling passing miles of queuing cars in the morning rush-hour!
The level of responsibility given to me could easily be argued to be far and above that which a part-1 graduate might expect to experience. I have represented Jefferson Sheard at design team meetings (both in a solo and supporting role) on a number of occasions and I am regularly in direct contact with clients and consultants. I have personally submitted planning applications, whilst maintaining contact with planning officers along the way and am regularly, heavily involved in the design and development of projects from their early stages all the through to construction - most recently the stunning new entrance to Northumbria University Union of Students - due for completion September 2010.
Needless to say I am thoroughly enjoying my time here, despite what the recession has thrown at not just our company but the construction sector in general. Throughout, the family atmosphere has remained strong and can always be seen at any of the office and inter-office social events. It will come as no surprise for you to hear I look forward to the rich opportunities and experiences coming my way working at the Sheffield office of Jefferson Sheard Architects.
Architectural Assistant
This is my first job in UK, the one that gives chances to learn a lot about practical side of architecture while still enjoying working (the only one I had where I was asked if I like what I'm doing here). Working on diversity of projects on different stages gives me some good opportunities to develop both technical and design skills - and is much better for me than doing the same type of projects all the time. I enjoy the size of the branch I'm working in - which is relatively small (good for knowing everyone and having opportunity to learn from everyone) and growing (good for meeting new interesting people). It happens to be funny here and it never is discouraging - good place to gain experience and self-confidence
Asystant w JSA w Edynburgu
To moja pierwsza praca w Wielkiej Brytanii - taka, która daje wiele okazji do nauki praktycznej strony zawodu a jednoczesnie jest przyjemna (to jedyna praca w której pytano mnie jak mi sie podoba I czy lubie to co tutaj robie). Praca nad wieloma roznymi tematami o roznym stopniu zaawansowania pozwala rozwinac zarowno wiedze techniczna jak i zdolnosci projektowe - i z mojego punktu widzenia jest o wiele cenniejsza niz bylaby praca nad mniej zroznicowanymi projektami. Podoba mi sie wielkosc oddzialu w ktorym pracuje - jest on stosunkowo niewielki (co pozwala poznac wszystkich i uczyc sie od wszystkich) a jednoczesnie stale sie powieksza (co jest okazja do poznania nowych, interesujacych ludzi). Czasami jest zabawnie, nigdy natomiast nie mozna czuc sie zniechecanym - to dobre miejsce by zyskac doswiadczenie zawodowe oraz pewnosc siebie."
Technician
Being given the opportunity to write this piece for Jefferson Sheard is one of the many opportunities they have given me since I began work for them just over a year ago. This highlights the way Jefferson Sheard always work. They encourage people to take things on board, advance in what they do and work to the best of their abilities.
Having studied for 4 years at the University of Huddersfield and gaining a BA (Hons) Transport Design Degree I was lucky enough to be taken on board by Jefferson Sheard thanks to Mr. Tom Rhys Jones (Managing Director). As I was totally inexperienced in Architecture and the construction industry he was obviously able to see the potential for me and the company. This is the great philosophy Jefferson Sheard seems to follow - in exchange for the many opportunities they provide; they receive hardworking, enthusiastic and determined people who aim to succeed in whatever they do.
Initially Jefferson Sheard supported me through a course to further my basic CAD knowledge to a level 2 City and Guilds qualification. Along with the continuous support in work, Jefferson Sheard now support me and allow me the time to participate in day release at the University of Salford on the Architectural Design and Technology Course.
I now have experience of working at two of the Jefferson Sheard offices (Manchester and Sheffield). As I am sure they all are, the environment and people alike are welcoming, fun and great to be around. There is humor partnered with a light hearted yet hard working surroundings - again the philosophy seems to be if you work hard, you play hard (out of hours socials are great) I couldn't wish for a better job and company to go with it!
Along with the opportunities of gaining further qualifications, Jefferson Sheard have a broad and exciting range of projects to be involved in. Especially for me on my latest and most significant project to date - the Soundhouse (I'm not sure if this was done on purpose due to me being one of the louder members of the office!) This along with other exciting projects, the knowledge and experience of the entire team working at Jefferson Sheard and with my drive and enthusiasm to succeed I look forward to having a long and successful career with Jefferson Sheard Architects