The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has given a broad welcome to the planned education reforms revealed last week by the Architects Registration Board.
ARB has set out a new vision for the way that future architects are educated and trained which, if approved, could be the most significant changes to architectural education and training in 50 years.
ARB’s aim is to help develop a profession that reflects society. New routes to becoming an architect must be developed if the UK is to have an inclusive profession.
RIBA President Simon Allford said: “Over the last decade the RIBA, through its evolving global validation work, has been actively championing initiatives that encourage new models for architectural education to emerge.
“We have long believed that the transformation and modernisation of architectural education, including more flexible, accessible and inclusive study routes with a focus on competence and sustainability, will help us attract the best talent and support a more representative profession.
“A profession that will continue to thrive as we take on the challenge of collaboratively designing the low carbon future.
“Of course there is much to be done so we welcome the broad scope of this ARB report that now aligns with our long standing commitment to assessing outcomes and capabilities rather than inputs.
“As ever, it is how RIBA and ARB engage on the details of the reforms that will determine their success. So we will continue to work closely with the ARB to ensure any new models promote and enable a truly inclusive profession.”
