Architectural Assistant Review
at FBB Architects
Degree Apprenticeship
Construction
Chelmsford
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Carrying out architectural detailed design packages for developer clients. Typically, I assist in drawing up plans, sections, elevations and details, as well as issuing information out to clients, attending meetings and engaging with consultants over the phone and via email.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I thoroughly enjoy my programme and the opportunity it presents to get onto the architectural ladder quicker and easier than most. The combination of the work in practice and the studying to lead my own projects is exciting and gives me a variety of knowledge and experience conceptually and practically.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have hugely developed my architectural skills and my social skills, of which include self assessed meticulous decision making, general computer design skills and my ability to talk much more confidently. Skills also include development in understanding architectural practice and the processes carried out to lead a project to completion.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is very well structured, giving apprentices the opportunity for a tutor led tutorial on a Monday at university, followed by a four-day working week. The tutors are knowledgeable and very helpful in the design process, and my peers and fellow apprentices allow for conversation and inspiration regarding projects.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer. My colleagues make it easy to talk to them about university should I need any help, as well as consistent check-ins to understand how I am fairing when I'm studying outside of work.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a lot of support from my training provider throughout my course in the form of review meetings every few months to discuss my progress. Additionally, I am able to contact my training provider via email or teams should I feel I am struggling or unsure of anything.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The review meetings allow me to voice any concerns I have regarding anything in the apprenticeship. My training provider is excellent in the sense they build strong relationships with each apprentice to allow them to feel equally comfortable and heard should there be anything to worry about.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
We have weekly CPDs at work where we can network with a person or business that comes into the office. We also occasionally go out for office lunches and meals to build better relationships amongst the staff at the firm. Each year we also host a baking competition between us!
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend FBB Architects to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is a great place to work, boasting a comfortable and easy-going work environment as well as an amazing apprenticeship scheme which cannot be overseen. The work itself is demanding yet rewarding, as it varies day to day, making for a great way to develop all different skill sets.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to FBB Architects?
I would tell anyone applying to be ready for a demanding work load that has great rewards. It is a very pleasant, friendly environment with plenty of support.
