Future Talent Programme

Future Talent Programme

Our Future Talent Programme gives young people – especially those from underrepresented backgrounds – the chance to explore architecture and design from the inside. Our aim is to reach a diverse range of students, open doors into the profession, and encourage wider access through awareness, inclusion and opportunity.


This is not new to us. As a practice we have long been committed to helping students and young people build careers in the architecture and design industry. We’ve supported Blueprint for All (formerly the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust) since 2010, with paid work placements, mentoring and hosting exhibitions. We also offer work experience, career talks, seminars, studio tours and workshops in order to provide those considering a career in architecture a taste of what it’s like to work in practice.

Our Future Talent Programme draws these areas together. Working with schools, universities and charities, including RIBA and the Futures for All charity, to engage with students and promote architecture and design. The programme brings all our initiatives into one place, making it easier for students and educators to see what’s available and how to get involved. We will continually develop the programme, with initiatives that reinforce our commitment to inclusivity and access to the industry.

In-Studio Work Experience (Students in Year 10–13)

If you’re curious about what architects actually do day-to-day, this is a chance to experience it first-hand.

Our work experience programme is typically 1 week in duration and includes a programme of information sessions, mentoring, and pre-defined design exercises supported by experienced architects. This programme offers students a real insight into what it means to be a designer and includes a brief, research, design/concept development and a presentation for their portfolio. Students pair up so they can work together and experience teamwork and collaboration.

What you’ll get at a glance:

  • Support from practising architects
  • A structured design task for your portfolio
  • Insight into studio life and teamwork
  • Practical experience of the design process

Applications from interested students are welcome early each year. We welcome applications via our Guildford and London pages, where you’ll find deadlines, available dates and how to apply.

Please note that spaces are limited.

 

Virtual Work Experience

Our virtual work experience programme is ideal if you can’t travel to our studios, or simply want to explore architecture from home.

Our virtual work experience, in partnership with Futures for All (formerly Speakers for Schools) charity, gives students a taste of what it’s like working in an architectural practice. Our experienced architects guide students through a series of group and individual projects, where they are able to learn and apply a range of design skills such as 3D modelling, architectural drawing and portfolio presentation skills. Additionally, in virtual classrooms students get to meet various members of the practice who give talks on life in practice, the design process, university applications, the architectural career path and sustainability in the construction industry.

What you’ll learn:

  • 3D modelling and architectural drawing basics
  • How to build and present a portfolio
  • How design teams work together
  • Guidance on university applications and next steps

These sessions are run at least once a year. Please contact your school careers team to find out if they are part of the Futures for All scheme.

“Thank you for making [my son’s] visit to Scott Brownrigg a real catalyst for his decision to research and pursue architecture as a career. He loved the visit and came away with a real excitement of becoming an architect and particularly as an apprentice rather the standard university route. You certainly inspired him!” Parent of a local school student

 

Additional Work Experience Access

For students unable to access the opportunities listed above, please contact the RIBA who organise work experience programmes, both with us and other architecture practices.

Paid Work Placements

Our paid placements offer students the chance to gain real experience across design, delivery, leadership, management or business development. You’ll work alongside architect mentors who will help shape a personalised training plan, supporting you as you build confidence, skills and insight into how architectural practice works.

These placements are ideal for students who want deeper, hands-on exposure to the profession and a clearer understanding of what a future career in architecture could look like. To find current vacancies, please refer to our careers page.

 

Digital Bootcamp

For undergraduates between Years 2–3 who want to boost their digital design skills, this two-week summer bootcamp offers a hands-on introduction to the tools architects use every day.

Our Future Talent ‘Digital Bootcamp’ provides undergraduate students of architecture, between years 2–3, the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the digital design journey and how to apply digital skills in practice. Delivered in collaboration with specialist digital partners, the two-week summer programme covers all aspects of digital architecture – from early concept parametric modelling to project delivery using sustainability, BIM and information management tools.

What you’ll explore:

  • Parametric and computational design
  • BIM workflows and information management
  • Sustainable design tools
  • How digital thinking shapes real projects

If you’re interested in taking part, please contact your university so they can reach out to us on your behalf about getting involved.

 

Apprenticeships in Architecture

Find out more about our apprenticeship programme here. If you’re looking for a route into architecture that blends study with paid professional experience, our apprenticeship pathway may be the right fit.

“A big thank you to Scott Brownrigg for giving me the opportunity to immerse myself into a functioning architectural practice. Being able to access the expertise available at Scott Brownrigg whilst completing my own design project was invaluable. My time in the studio, alongside attending multiple site visits and committee meetings has definitely reaffirmed my hope of pursuing a career in Architecture” Lola Wright, College student

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