National Apprenticeship Week (March 4-8) is an annual event designed to celebrate the positive impact of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses and the wider economy. This year for the first time, architecture students are participating, following the approval last July of both Level 6 and Level 7 architecture apprentice standards, developed by the RIBA with UK practices.
Efe Chamay, our first apprentice, is enrolled at Oxford Brookes on the Level 7 apprenticeship, which includes completion of Part 2 and Part 3. The course follows his time with us last year as part of his Part 1 studies at the same university. Efe says:
“The architectural apprenticeship has allowed me to continue gaining valuable experience in the industry as well as encouraging me to utilise the wealth of knowledge available within the practice. This, combined with the ability to study without the financial burden normally attached is what encouraged me to apply.
“Although I was keen to return to university after a year in industry, it seemed counter-intuitive and uneconomical. Had it not been for this opportunity I may not have been able to complete my studies.”
Efe is one of the 60 architectural apprentices enrolled in four UK universities - London South Bank, Oxford Brookes, Northumbria and De Montfort.
With the potential to attract those who have never previously considered a career in architecture or attending university, as well as enabling practices to develop existing staff in different roles, apprenticeships represent a significant step on the path towards a more socially inclusive architectural profession.
You can find out more about becoming an architecture apprentice or employing one here.
How can we help?
Please get in touch if you’d like to know more about us and how we work with our clients, consultants and colleagues.