My name is Ryan and I'm 19 years old. I have 3 A Levels in Physics, Product Design and History. I have a huge passion for architecture and design. I'm looking for an Architectural Technician/ Architectural Draughtsman apprenticeship. I've been looking for months but to no avail. I've looked on the apprenticeships.org site many times but had no luck there either. I would just like some advice on how to go about getting an apprenticeship in this sector, maybe some websites or companies that you know of that could point me in the right direction. Thank you for your time.
As you’ve already used the apprenticeships.org web site you’ll be aware that Architectural Technician fits within the Level 3 Apprenticeship “framework”.
It is officially called the “Pathway 1: Built Environment and Design”.
The framework document states that apprentices will study for the:
NVQ Level 3 Diploma Built Environment Design and the Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment.
It goes on to describe the routes into this apprenticeship:
“ This will be from a variety of routes, including:
• STEP into construction project
• the women and work sector pathways initiative (W&WSPI)
• completed a young apprenticeship scheme (14-16) in construction
• achieved a Construction and Built Environment Diploma (14–19)
• Functional Skills English and Maths, or Key Skills Application of Number and Communication
• A Levels and GCSEs at Grades A–C
• Intermediate (Level 2) Apprenticeship in Construction Building, Construction Civil
Engineering, Construction Specialist or Construction Technical Supervision and Management
• Advanced (Level 3) Apprenticeship in Construction Building, Construction Civil Engineering or Construction Specialist “
The first 5 are not relevant to your situation but the sixth means that you are indeed eligible to undertake the Level 3 apprenticeship.
The difficulty is that the existence of the framework does not mean that actual real vacancies will be in plentiful supply. I’m sure you realise that the construction industry is in the doldrums at the moment and that this is a challenging time for people seeking to enter technical and professional careers.
The other thing to mention is that the professional body for architectural technicians/technologists (the CIAT) states:
“As a professionally qualified Architectural Technician, you
will be a specialist in the application of technology in
architecture, building design and construcion.
You will not be able to set up your own practice but will be
an integral part of the team with specific skills in a
supporting role specialising in research and detailing.
To become a professionally qualified Architectural Technician
it is recommended that you complete an Architectural
Technology Associate degree, Higher Diploma (HND), Higher
Cerificate (HNC) or Foundation degree in Architectural
Technology (or construction equivalent). “
I suggest you visit their web site and click on the “Careers” section to find out more.
They have a “find a job” section there which may be useful.
The other organisation which may be able to advise you is the CITB.
Their web site allows you to make an online application for apprenticeships so you should register your interest with them. You can also find telephone and email contact details (by region) in their “Contact us” section. Why not get in touch and ask for their advice.
