The ARB’s independent Commission on professional practical experience (PPE) in architecture published the results of its year-long investigation into the challenges faced by future architects in seeking suitable work experience on 17 April.
RIBA gives its initial reaction to the insights and re-states the importance of more flexible modes of study and routes into architecture to secure and maintain a skilled workforce to deliver desperately needed high quality housing.
Chair of RIBA Board of Trustees, Jack Pringle said:
“Training and retaining highly skilled architects from all walks of life is vital to deliver the quality homes we so desperately need and address societal challenges such as achieving net zero.
But to ensure a brilliant and diverse pipeline of talent into the profession we need fresh thinking and new approaches, starting with modes of study, which should be more flexible and, in some cases, shorter.
We are particularly keen to see the development of a five-year admission to registration route emerging as a viable educational model, and will work with schools and the ARB to support this development.
I’m encouraged by some of the findings from the ARB’s PPE Commission, not just because they reflect many of our own insights, which we are already addressing, but also because some of the issues that have emerged will give us an opportunity to reflect on what more can be done.
However, education reform, particularly around practical experience, has been far, far too slow in coming, and I hope that the ARB Board will now act quickly in response to the Commission’s recommendations. In particular, recommendations that improve accessibility to the profession by removing unnecessary barriers to entry and requiring PPE to be outcome rather than time based, should be strongly encouraged.
Some of the recommendations have significant implications for learning providers, so we are ready to engage with ARB, students and practices to help ensure that all routes into learning and professional practice work for all.”
Notes to Editors
Media contact: Nancy.Ludwig@riba.org
