Academy for Regional Design and Architecture

Description

Introduction

The Academy for Regional Design and Architecture is a dynamic, cross-cutting educational initiative designed for young people aged 16-19 year old, bridging academic and vocational pathways. This program is open to students from a wide range of disciplines including those studying traditional A Levels (e.g., Mathematics, Art, Physics) as well as those enrolled in vocational courses such as plumbing, electrical engineering, carpentry, and other trades. By integrating a blend of creative, technical, and practical learning, the academy ensures all students, regardless of their prior educational focus, to build valuable transferable skills and explore new opportunities within the architecture, design, and construction sectors.

The academy’s curriculum fosters creativity, technical expertise, and professional development through hands on projects, masterclasses with industry leaders, portfolio building, and live employer collaborations, offering a pathway to support progression into multiple areas within both higher education and the Construction and Architecture sector.

Program Overview

The cross cutting approach combines academic learning with vocational training and practical experience, emphasising the importance of interdisciplinary skills in architecture and design. Students from diverse educational backgrounds will gain a holistic understanding of the design process, from the conceptual phase through to real world application, ensuring they are well equipped for a range of career opportunities in this area.


Key Program Components

Core Curriculum

• Architectural ‘basics and concepts’ for All Disciplines:
Regardless of whether a student is studying A Levels in art, physics, or math, or a vocational qualification in construction or engineering, they will be introduced to key architectural concepts. Topics include space, form, materials, structure, and sustainability.
• Cross-Disciplinary Design Thinking:
Focus on the integration of diverse skills, showing how architects collaborate with tradespeople like carpenters, electricians, and plumbers in the creation of functional, innovative spaces.
• Design Tools and Techniques:
Training in both digital tools (e.g, AutoCAD, Rhino, Revit) and physical making skills. For those with vocational training, this component bridges the gap between theoretical design and practical application, teaching how to transform ideas into tangible outcomes.
• Sustainable Practices Across Disciplines:
Emphasis on eco-friendly materials, energy efficient design, and the role of all sectors whether in construction, carpentry, electrical work, or plumbing in creating sustainable, functional buildings.
• History of Architecture and Design:
An accessible history of design that reflects a range of construction methods and innovations, showing how various trades have contributed to architectural evolution.
• Redefining the constructions industry:
Discovering alternative architecture, exploration of new roles and the changes in industry including retraining for existing skilled workers towards alternative roles such as 'assembly engineers'
• AI/Technology:
AI and technology can make architecture smarter and more sustainable. Tools like generative design help create efficient and creative building plans, while smart systems can adjust lighting, heating, and cooling based on how people use a space. Virtual reality lets us experience designs before they are built, and robotics or 3D printing can speed up construction while reducing waste.


Portfolio Design (Sunderland College and Northumbria University)

• Inclusive Portfolio Development:
Whether students are coming from an A Level background or vocational training, they will learn how to create a professional portfolio showcasing their unique skills. This includes both creative designs and technical work, allowing students to highlight their craftsmanship and understanding of architectural construction.
• Project-Based Portfolio Building:
Students will engage in real-world, multi-disciplinary projects where they can apply both design and technical skills, with the results contributing directly to their portfolios.
• Digital and Physical Portfolios:
A focus on both traditional paper based and digital portfolios, allowing students to present their work to a wider audience. This includes online portfolios, 3D renderings, and video presentations.

Masterclasses and Expert Sessions (Sunderland College, Employers and Northumbria University)

• Industry-Focused Masterclasses:
Masterclasses will cover various aspects of architecture and design. Students will have the chance to participate in specialised sessions about how their trades integrate with architectural design. For instance, workshops could cover areas like structural integrity, design for architects, or building regulations.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning:
Special masterclasses that focus on how architects, engineers, and tradespeople (plumbers, electricians, carpenters, artists, academics) collaborate on live projects. These sessions will ensure that students gain an understanding of each other’s roles, fostering better communication and teamwork skills.
• Soft Skills Development:
Career focused workshops on client communication, contract negotiation, and presentation skills, ensuring that students from any background whether creative or vocational are prepared for the workplace.

Employer and Industry Collaboration (Employers)

• Live Industry Projects:
Students will work on real world, cross-disciplinary projects that require input from both creative and vocational sectors. For instance, an architectural design project may need to incorporate electrical, plumbing, and carpentry considerations from students in those fields.
• Mentorship Program:
Industry professionals, including architects, tradespeople, and designers, will mentor students on both the creative and practical aspects of design. This mentorship will guide students through the complexities of the profession, offering insight into the realities of working in architecture, design, and construction.
• Work Placements:
Partnerships with architectural organisations, construction companies, design studios, and trade organisations will offer students opportunities for practical experience.
• Employer-Run Workshops:
Industry partners will lead sessions on specific construction processes, offering a perspective on design, construction, and technology.

Value Added Activities (Employers and Northumbria University)

• Cross-Disciplinary Design Competitions:
Students from different academic and vocational backgrounds will come together to solve a design challenge. These competitions could involve designing a Passive House, integrating design, planning, and construction elements.
• Site Visits:
Trips to construction sites, architectural landmarks, and design studios, where students can see how different trades contribute to the realisation of architectural projects.
• Guest Speakers and Networking Events:
Industry figures, ranging from architects to construction professionals, will be invited to share their expertise and career experiences, creating opportunities for students to network with potential employers.

Learning Approach (Sunderland College, Employers and Northumbria University)


• Inclusive Project-Based Learning:
All students will work on hands on projects, whether they are A Level students with a focus on creative design or vocational students with a practical trade background. The projects will be designed to encourage cross-cutting collaboration, ensuring that each student learns to communicate and work with those from different fields.
• Tailored Support and Mentoring:
Individual mentoring will be provided to students based on their specific career interests and backgrounds. For instance, A Level students may receive guidance on portfolio development for university applications, while vocational students receive advice on how to expand their craft into architectural design and construction roles.
• Industry-Relevant Skills:
Students will develop both technical (e.g., CAD software, building regulations) and creative (e.g., visual design, ideation) skills, making them well-rounded professionals ready to contribute to interdisciplinary projects.

Outcome and Impact

By the end of the program, students will:

• Possess a diverse portfolio that highlights both creative designs and technical expertise.
• Have practical experience in real world architectural projects that require cross-disciplinary collaboration.
• Be prepared to enter higher education programs in architecture or design or secure employment in the architecture, construction, or design sectors.
• Gain valuable insights into how creative and vocational roles intersect within the built environment industry, fostering both collaboration and innovation.
The cross-cutting nature of the Architecture and Design Academy ensures that students from both creative academic backgrounds and vocational training programs can thrive. By blending practical experience, masterclasses, portfolio development, and direct employer engagement, the academy offers a holistic pathway for young people to explore, develop, and enter careers in the diverse fields of architecture, design, and construction.

Period	1 Dec 2025 → 30 Jun 2027
Work for	Education Partnership North East, United Kingdom
Degree of Recognition	Regional