Westcountry Architectural Firm Sets New Standard for Employee Education Support

A Westcountry architectural practice is making waves by supporting two employees to complete their architectural studies while working full-time. Poynton Bradbury Architects, with offices in St Ives and Exeter, is bucking the national trend where many would-be architects are forced to take unpaid leave to pursue further education.

Addressing Industry Challenges

The UK architectural industry faces several challenges, including a significant skills shortage and the rapid evolution of design and construction methodologies. According to Poynton Bradbury Architects, continuous education is essential for addressing these challenges. The firm believes that by encouraging ongoing education, architectural practices can ensure a steady influx of skilled professionals capable of tackling complex problems, driving sustainability initiatives, and embracing digital transformation.

Laura Highton, Director at Poynton Bradbury, emphasised the importance of trained architects in the industry. “Trained architects are better equipped to tackle complex problems, drive sustainability initiatives, and embrace digital transformation. Continuous learning is vital for the industry to stay competitive and innovative,” she said.

Unprecedented Support for Employees

Despite the evident benefits of supporting further education, Poynton Bradbury highlights that many architectural practices do not offer significant support to their employees. Instead, unpaid leave is often the only option available.

Poynton Bradbury, however, has taken a different approach. The firm has supported Justina Naruseviciute and Caroline Richardson in completing their architectural studies while being part of the team. This support includes financial assistance, time off for studies, and mentorship.

Caroline Richardson, a former timber frame designer and cocktail bar manager, recently gained her Certificate in Architecture part 1 and has been nominated for the Royal Institute of British Architects’ bronze medal award for her final year project. “Poynton Bradbury Architects said they would support me through my studies. They offered me the job there and then and said they would pay for my tuition as part of my salary package. They have allowed me time off to study and also provided me with a mentor,” she explained.

She added, “I know first-hand that Poynton Bradbury are at the opposite end of the spectrum to most other architectural practices – it’s so rare to find a company that offers this level of support in this industry.”

Justina Naruseviciute, a former conservation grade framer and gallery employee, has just gained her Diploma in Architecture RB part 2. She expressed her gratitude for the support received, stating, “Having the team there to explore both the practical and theoretical side of things was really helpful. We also brought back new technologies introduced to us at university to the practice.”

A Call for Industry-wide Change

Poynton Bradbury Architects underscores the importance of supporting designers to continue their architectural studies while working. The firm believes this approach is crucial for the future of the industry and individual growth.

By investing in the education of its staff, Poynton Bradbury Architects is setting a new standard in the architectural industry, demonstrating that with the right support, employees can thrive both professionally and academically.

Photo: Poynton Bradbury Architects directors celebrate thier employees’ success. Directors Simon Burgess and Laura Highton with Justina Naruseviciute and Caroline Stephens and fellow directors Cian Spowart and Chris Turner.