‘A fantastic, informative, and in-depth resource’: new guide helps illuminate the architecture apprenticeship pathway

The Architecture Apprenticeship pathway is a relatively new method for achieving professional architectural qualification, combining on-the-job training with an employer and off-the-job training with a certified training provider. As a route to qualification, it is very different from the traditional and well-known Part 1-3 process.

The Architecture Apprenticeship Handbook serves as a dedicated resource to explain and outline the Architecture Apprenticeship pathway in detail. The Handbook is aimed at early-career professionals or those considering a career in architecture and demonstrates the benefits and advantages of the apprenticeship pathway. It also honestly describes the potential downsides and answers key questions that may arise when potential students consider this route. In addition, the Handbook aims to widen access and encourage diversification within the profession by highlighting the flexibility and accommodation apprenticeships offer to different personal and professional circumstances.

Written by Daniel Goodricke, first-year leader of the Architect (Level 7) Degree Apprenticeship at Northumbria University, and Luke Murray, Architecture BA (Hons) course leader at Ravensbourne University London, the Handbook has been authored by two chartered architects and educators with ties to several well-known architectural academic institutions. Both authors have been involved in the development of architecture apprenticeships with training providers, giving them in-depth knowledge of the apprenticeship pathway and its requirements.

The Handbook is clearly structured and well-organised into four main chapters, charting the timeline and journey of the apprenticeship route. Chapter 1 explains what the apprenticeship pathway is, how it works in practice, compares it to other routes, and explores the characteristics that make it a unique option. This chapter provides future students with all the information they need to determine if this route will work for them and the confidence that, although it differs from the traditional route, it still achieves the same degree outcome and professional qualification, backed by industry.

This section is also supported by an outline of the Architectural Apprenticeship Standard that governs the pathway, explaining that these standards were created by a group of employers called ‘trailblazers.’ These trailblazers, a group of around 20 or so well-known practices, acted on behalf of the profession as a whole to create the standard for the Architectural Apprenticeship.

What is important here is that apprentices can see employers have directly influenced the course and its outcomes. Apprentices can be confident that the skills they acquire while on the course will be directly transferable and applicable to practice, in whichever form that may take. Furthermore, they will become highly sought-after professionals who have combined practical learning with tailored professional academic education.

Chapter 2 advises prospective apprentices on how to find the ‘right employer’ and the ‘right training provider’ and the Training Plan that will form the basis of the agreement between apprentice, employer, and training provider. It also outlines the roles and responsibilities expected of the apprentice, the employer, and the training provider.

Clear, straightforward diagrams and charts offer visual insight into how individual circumstances can be applied to the apprenticeship route and the requirements needed to meet its criteria.

Daniel Goodricke and Luke Murray have created an ideal addition to any professional’s library or practice’s resource centre

The Handbook covers a range of topics on finding the right employer, including how to prepare a CV and portfolio, interview guidance (such as what questions to ask and what questions you may be asked), and more. This advice is invaluable not just for apprentices but for any young architecture student looking to secure employment.

Chapter 3 outlines what to expect when undertaking an apprenticeship. The highlight of this section, and indeed the Handbook itself, is the richly illustrated case studies based on apprentices, their experiences, and their projects.

The case studies align with the RIBA Themes and Values for Architectural Education. Each theme has its own subsection, with high-level mapping of the applicable KSBs (Knowledge, Skills, Behaviours), RIBA mandatory competencies, and CPD core curriculum elements. The theme is introduced by an expert’s perspective and discussion, offering practical advice on integrating the theme into projects. QR codes link back to RIBA CPD content, and suitable case studies document the core curriculum, demonstrating how each theme has directly influenced apprentices’ work. These case studies showcase the breadth, depth, and complexity of the projects apprentices undertake and the professional skills, abilities, and knowledge they acquire in the process. Each case study includes critical reflection and advice from the apprentices, their mentors, and their training providers.

When considering these case studies as a whole, it is striking to see the diversity of the apprentices, their backgrounds, and the unique personal focus within architecture that they have developed during the apprenticeship process. This section brings to life the Handbook’s statement that “no two apprenticeships are alike.”

The final chapter describes the next steps after completing the apprenticeship process and acts as a great starting point for newly qualified professionals, helping them consider how to further develop their skills and become leaders in their fields.

The Handbook demonstrates that apprentices have directly contributed to real projects and have learned from applied practical experiences. In return, their work has often impacted their practice’s own research and development, creating a beneficial feedback loop that strengthens the profession.

Through this review, I have seen the real benefits of the Handbook. As a relatively new apprenticeship mentor (having just completed year two and now starting year three with my apprentice), the Handbook has helped demystify the apprenticeship programme for me and has clarified my role as an apprenticeship mentor, which differs from being a traditional Part 3 mentor. I now feel more informed and confident in conversations with my apprentice and our training provider.

Overall, the Handbook is not just a fantastic, informative, and in-depth resource for prospective and current apprentices and their mentors, but also a valuable tool for architectural professionals in general, particularly for clearly explaining and illustrating the RIBA Education Themes and Values through real-life case studies—an achievement to be applauded.

With the Handbook, Daniel Goodricke and Luke Murray have created an ideal addition to any professional’s library or practice’s resource centre. I hope the Architecture Apprenticeship Handbook becomes as recognised and valued by the profession as the venerable Part 3 Handbook.

>> Also read: Why I’m pursuing an apprenticeship rather than a university degree

>> Also read: From the ground up: Ackroyd Lowrie on a mission to turn school leavers into architects with real work experience