The journey to becoming an architect traditionally follows a well-worn path through university education. However, at Levitt Bernstein, we're proud to be able to offer an alternative route for aspiring architects through our apprenticeship programme.
In 2021 we partnered with London South Bank University to support our first architectural Level 6 apprentice, Basil Anuar, under the mentorship of Project Architect Banah Rashid. This innovative programme combines paid employment with academic study, creating opportunities for those who might otherwise find the traditional route challenging. Importantly for us, it is aimed at school leavers, rather than those who have already completed their undergraduate architecture degree, and therefore targets young people on the cusp of deciding their future career path.
The programme's success lies in its practical, hands-on approach. Basil has gained valuable experience working on significant projects, visited construction sites, and learned the practical aspects of being an architect. His contributions to the studio's projects, combined with academic study, have enriched both his development and our practice.
"The overlap between academia and practice has been invaluable - what I've learned at university enriches my office work, and vice versa," Basil reflects. "Working in the studio has given me practical knowledge that's been crucial for developing my own projects, and has taught me to think more critically about architecture. The apprenticeship route offers a unique mix of creative freedom through university and hands-on experience in practice. While it's been challenging at times, it's been incredibly rewarding, and I'm excited about the next step in my career."
This new model of education and training supports a more inclusive workforce, which resonates with our practice's cultural ethos. It's about opening the industry to a more diverse pool of young people.
The apprenticeship has enabled Basil to work alongside specialists across various disciplines and sectors, from urban design and landscape architecture to housing and arts projects. Through community engagement, social events, lectures and volunteering activities, Basil has developed a comprehensive understanding of the wider industry.
For us too, it has been a learning process and we have come to understand that the biggest challenge is getting the right balance of work, study, and life for Basil. Levitt Bernstein's supportive environment has been crucial for the success of this programme as we have been able to accommodate study time and provide additional support during crucial academic periods, demonstrating our commitment to support Basil's academic goals.
"Basil has been a great first apprentice for the practice," reflects Banah Rashid, Project Architect and mentor. "The learning experience has very much been a two-way street – while we've supported his development into the competent and knowledgeable graduate he is becoming, we've also learnt a lot about the apprenticeship education model. Although very demanding, it's been very inspiring to see Basil work on projects in the practice while developing thoughtful, well-considered schemes for his university projects. Mentoring Basil has meant getting to see his progression first-hand, which has been a great pleasure."
As he approaches graduation from Part 1, Basil's journey exemplifies how alternative pathways can enrich both individual careers and the architectural profession. His experience has not only developed his technical skills but has also deepened his understanding of architecture's social impact, particularly in community consultation and inclusive design.
This pioneering programme represents Levitt Bernstein's commitment to creating a more diverse and inclusive architectural profession. Building on this success, we are delighted to announce that applications are now open for our second Level 6 apprenticeship programme in partnership with London South Bank University. We look forward to welcoming another apprentice who will help shape the future of our practice and the wider profession.
Please visit our Join Our Team page to apply to the position of Level 6 Apprentice – Architectural Assistant.
