Architectural Assistant Review

I work with modeling software such as Revit. Daily tasks will involve working on drawings for a planning application. Responding to emails from the external and internal contacts of the design team. Also organising weekly CPD seminars for people within my practice. Communicating with team members to discuss progress and design ideas. I work on a range of projects from bids to concept development, planning, and tender. I have had the opportunity to visit sites and public consultations.

I have learnt a lot of new skills which include but is not limited to software, communication, presentation and how to submit applications. I have also developed my existing skills in the software I already new, improving greatly. I have worked on my time management and organisation over the past two years as they have been very essential to my progress. I am still learning the best way to manage my time, all the time.

I enjoy my programme very much. I enjoy my workplace and I am very happy to be able to continue working there while having the opportunity to study. The people I work with are very supportive and have been helping me from the beginning of my apprenticeship. They are a great team. I like the interactions and discussions we have about my university work. I like taking the design ideas I have from my university projects and trying to apply them to real life situations.

I believe the programme is structured very well. I was nervous about the idea of working and studying at the same time. I was grateful for the induction at the start of the course which outlined what I was to expect for the next 3-4 years. It gave me an understanding of how I could manage my time and the intensity of the course. The booklet which outlines everything I am to know about the apprenticeship has been a guide, There is contact information for all teaching staff. Everything I could need to get through.

My employers are very supportive. The whole team in my office is very supportive. My mentor is the best. She is always asking about how my course is going, providing suggestions for catch-ups and informal discussions about my work to see how they can support me. The HR team is understanding and up to date with all the information regarding my course. If there is a change, they are quick to inform me and ensure I am always kept in the loop.

I know who I can go to if I need any help. The tutors try their best to be on hand as often as they can. They say they are available via emails if we have any questions about anything and we should contact them. They try to take the time to explain things and make sure we understand before moving on especially in 1-1 tutorials. The offices of the tutors and higher learning staff are open for conversations when they are available.

My qualification opens my eyes to a whole new way of design. It allows more creativity to flow and new ideas to form which I can then use in practice. They allow us to explore our interests but think about how it can impact the society we are living in today. It is great because ultimately we want to do something that empowers us and we are passionate about. It is a good time to try to discover what they are. I believe it has helped me to be more open at work.

Yes, there are social activities and I am very much part of the social committee. I try to attend the social events as it is a time to relax and get to know my co-workers. There is also the summer and winter parties as well as a work away day where we learn about what the other offices do. Our practice encourages us to go to networking events outside the office organised by other associations.

Yes

I would recommend this company to a friend, my office in particular because I think the team is lovely. The team is very supportive and everyone is generally friendly. I believe the work ethic in my office is good and balanced. I believe someone can really learn and grow here from all the experienced individuals and the initiatives that aim to improve knowledge and growth overall. It is a great practice as a whole, very in the know of what is happening in the industry.

First I would say to ensure they have all the information about the job role before submitting their application. It is important to know what you are signing up for. Then to email the right person, HR is usually the right person then write why they want to work for the company. It is good to know what we do. Ultimately I would say to just submit an application and when coming for the interview, to be yourself. Your talents, experiences, and background are what make you, you and it is good to have diversity in practice because it brings different knowledge and perspective.