In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re hearing from two of our employees who are currently undertaking apprenticeships at HLM. This time, we’re speaking to Ben Booth, Part II Architectural Assistant from our London studio, who is currently studying the Level 7 apprenticeship into Architecture.
“I enjoy working in a practical setting and the valuable additional experience I acquire through hands-on practice, which I believe would have been challenging to attain through a full-time university program.”
What interested you in undertaking the Level 7 (Part 2 and 3) Architectural Apprenticeship?
Upon joining HLM, I only intended to be there for my year out and then return to university for full-time studies. However, it was suggested that I explore the apprenticeship program. At the time, Dan Stokes (also from HLM’s London studio) was part way through his apprenticeship. After discussing with him and researching further, I soon realized that opting for the apprenticeship route was the best decision for me.
How is the course run?
The course follows a schedule where students attend work for four days a week and dedicate one day to university sessions. While this approach means completing one less unit per year compared to full-time study, it extends the overall duration of the course by an additional year
What assessment is required to complete the course?
To complete, you must do the same as if full time study for part 2 & 3 (Design, tech, history, case study, interview, PEDR’s) the only additional thing is you have to log what you do on your day at university.
The course is split up into:
Year 1
Semester 1
Design 401
Design 402: Arts, media and digital design
History and theory: critical thinking
Semester 2
Design 403
History and theory: critical thinking
Year 2
Semester 1
Architecture and theory: dissertation
Technology 5
Semester 2
Professional practice and design economics
Energy and resource efficiency in design
Year 3
Semester 1
Design 501
Design 502: Arts, media and digital design
Semester 2
Design 503
Technology 5: technical thesis
Year 4:
EPA professional interview and case study
What do you enjoy about the course?
I enjoy being able to apply the theoretical knowledge acquired during university studies and seeing how it translates into real projects. It was fun to apply what I was learning about with MMC (Modern Methods of Construction) in practice and then being creative with an infinite budget for my university design work.
You previously studied your Part 1 full time at University. How do you feel the apprenticeship compares to that route, in your personal experience?
While I appreciate the “university experience” I gained from completing my Part 1 full time, I believe opting for the apprenticeship for my Part 2 and 3 was the right decision for me. I enjoy working in a practical setting and the valuable additional experience I acquire through hands-on practice, which I believe would have been challenging to attain through a full-time university program.
Why would you recommend the apprenticeship?
The huge benefit of the experience and knowledge you learn on the job that can be applied to your university work is great. You also keep a full-time salary and don’t have to pay any uni fees!
How do you feel this route has helped your professional development?
I feel that the apprenticeship has significantly propelled my career forward. Upon qualification, I will have five years of experience at HLM, where I have had the opportunity to contribute to a diverse range of projects.
